DAR drivers told to `strictly’ obey traffic rules
Road mishaps and traffic jams are caused by different reasons including lack of driving discipline. MMDA PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) issued a memorandum requiring its drivers to “strictly” follow traffic laws and regulations.
The memorandum, signed by Undersecretary Lani de Leon of the Finance, Management, and Administrative Services, says that compliance with traffic laws is crucial to prevent road accidents.
“This initiative aims to support national and local traffic management efforts while ensuring the safety of all road users,” the DAR said in a statement on Tuesday.
READ: LTO nets over 639,000 traffic rules violators in 2024
The DAR also issued a penalty system for non-compliance:
First offense: Written warning and mandatory refresher training on traffic regulations.
Second offense: Written reprimand and temporary suspension from driving official vehicles.
Third offense and beyond: Possible suspension or termination after undergoing administrative investigation.
The drivers are also required to report any traffic violations to their supervisors within 24 hours upon the incident “to ensure transparency and prompt corrective action.”
READ: DAR dismisses worker for evading traffic enforcers
Last February, DA Secretary Conrado Estrella III ordered the dismissal of a service worker after attempting to evade traffic enforcers. Russel Smith, an administrative staff, was flagged for a traffic violation in Quezon City.
Video footage showed that Smith refused to present his driver’s license and sped away from the traffic enforcers.
