By MAE SINGUAY
BACOLOD City — City councilors here want Mayor Monico Puentevella to strictly implement the ordinance mandating the removal of billboards and signage during typhoons and other disasters.
Puentevella must carry out the local law in coordination with the City Engineer’s Office and the Office of the Building Official, said Councilor Em Ang, author of the ordinance.
During recent typhoons, many billboards and signage were still up in spite of storm warning signals and advices from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration, Ang said.
It is the policy of the state to safeguard life, health, property, and public welfare, she stressed.
The ordinance was approved last year.
Also, the City Council requested the Department of Public Works and Highways to install traffic lights at the intersection of the Carlos Hilado Highway (Circumferential Road) and the Alijis–Murcia Road.
Traffic lights will “greatly ease traffic and prevent vehicular accidents” in the area, Ang said.
Because it is poorly lighted at night, the intersection is prone to vehicular accidents. It is also where traffic builds up, especially during rush hours, she said.
Ang also observed that some national roads here do not have traffic lights yet.
The city government must maintain good traffic flow and ensure the safety of motorists and pedestrians, she stressed./PN
