Vain measure vs PUV drivers

DINO CAPISTRANO was correct when he wrote that the so-called no-contact apprehension of traffic violators being implemented by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority must have been intended to “target” only private motorists (“Only a ‘Duterte solution’ for ‘desperate’ traffic situations,” Opinion, 4/20/16).

Due to the nature of my work, I drive around Metro Manila and obediently slow down to stop at intersections when the lights turn yellow. Many private car drivers do the same.  But, lo and behold, jeepney drivers simply pay no heed to the yellow lights! Needless to say, the red lights mean nothing to them either! The only thing that stops them from going full speed ahead is when they see

vehicles already crossing the intersections. And that’s just about the full extent of their fear of the law—when recklessness means imminent collision!

Aren’t they at all afraid that the CCTV cameras might cause them denial of renewal of their vehicle registration the following year? Apparently, not. They seem to think that it’s all “been paid for,” it’s an all-year-round insurance! Judging from the miserable failure of the MMDA to discipline jeepney and bus drivers, it’s pretty obvious what has really been going on and why our traffic problems have only gotten worse! It is our bet that the only ones lining up to pay for the traffic citations for having been “caught on camera” will be the private car owners!

—ARNULFO M. EDRALIN, [email protected]