Police to monitor increased PUV capacity in Cebu
PHILIPPINE National Police (PNP) chief General Dionardo B. Carlos on Monday said he has ordered the monitoring of public utility vehicles (PUV) in Cebu province amid the decision of the provincial government to allow full passenger capacity in all PUVs starting March 1.
According to the top cop, they will fully adhere to the decision of the Cebu capitol but will see to it that minimum public health safety protocols are imposed and observed to prevent the further spread of COVID-19.
Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia said they made the decision following proper consultation with other government agencies including the PNP.
“This would mean that the PNP and other deputized enforcers will not apprehend drivers and conductors of PUVs with passengers at maximum capacity, but take note that there is a stress on observing the minimum public health standard such as wearing of face masks for passengers, drivers and conductors and regular disinfection of the PUV units,” Gen. Carlos said.
The PNP chief said that the Police Regional Office 7 (PRO7) headed by Brig. Gen. Roque Edgardo Vega will observe PUV movements in Cebu following the local government’s directive.
The PRO7 also appealed to the tri-cities of Cebu, Mandaue, and Lapu-Lapu to come up with their decision to avoid confusion in the implementation since many of these PUVs are plying or passing through Metro Cebu.
Gov. Garcia earlier clarified that trip tickets and PUV passes will still be inspected.
“Nevertheless, police officers deployed in the streets for monitoring purposes are to continue fulfilling their mandate of managing a possible gathering of people and reminding them of the health protocol,” Gen. Carlos said.
