AN ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING A COMPREHENSIVE AND SUSTAINABLE

FRAMEWORK FOR THE MITIGATION AND MANAGEMENT OF TRAFFIC

CONGESTION WITHIN THE BATANGAS CITY, ENSURING URBAN MOBILITY,
PUBLIC SAFETY, AND ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY.

Author : Mary Rose Dogillo

WHEREAS, the Constitution mandates a commitment to the well-being of citizens and the
sustainable development of communities;
WHEREAS, pursuant to the Local Government Code of 1991, which empowers local
government units to secure the general welfare of their constituents and enhance the peace,
safety, and well-being of their communities;
WHEREAS, the continuous growth in population and vehicular traffic within Batangas City has
resulted in persistent traffic congestion, negatively impacting the daily lives of residents;
WHEREAS, recognizing the constitutional duty to prioritize the well-being of citizens, there is a
pressing need to formulate and implement effective measures to alleviate traffic-related
challenges in the city;
NOW THEREFORE, by virtue of the authority vested in the Sangguniang Panglungsod ng
Batangas and in compliance with the constitutional duty to uphold the welfare of the
community, it is hereby ordained:
SECTION 1. Short Title. This ordinance shall be known as the "Batangas City Traffic
Congestion Mitigation and Management Ordinance."
SECTION 2. Rationale. The City of Batangas, with the continuous traffic congestion, shall
provide proactive measures that will help to alleviate the burden on citizens and improve overall
urban functionality. The Batangas City Government shall take action to tackle the traffic
congestion issue in the city. Like implementing measures to improve the flow of traffic and
enhance road safety. The designated government agency, such as the Batangas City Traffic
Management Office, will take a lead role in implementing and enforcing the ordinance. This
agency will collaborate with relevant stakeholders to ensure effective measures are in place to
tackle traffic congestion, enhancing both the quality of life and the city's infrastructure.
SECTION 3. Definition of Terms. For the purpose of this ordinance, the following terms shall
have the following meanings:
 a) Traffic Congestion - a condition where the volume of vehicles on the road exceeds the
capacity, leading to a slowdown in traffic flow.
b) Comprehensive Framework - a systematic approach that considers various aspects to
effectively address and manage traffic congestion, encompassing urban mobility, public
safety, and environmental sustainability.
c) Mitigation - actions and strategies aimed at minimizing or preventing the negative
impacts of traffic congestion, with the goal of improving overall traffic conditions.
d) Management - organized and efficient control of traffic congestion through regulatory
and operational measures, focusing on enhancing urban mobility while ensuring public
safety and environmental sustainability.
e) Urban Mobility - the ability of individuals to move within the urban area easily and
efficiently, emphasizing accessibility and connectivity.
f) Public Safety - the protection of the general public from potential harm or danger related
to traffic congestion, encompassing measures to reduce accidents and ensure the well-
being of residents.
g) Environmental Sustainability - practices that consider the long-term impact of traffic
management on the environment, aiming to minimize pollution and promote sustainable
transportation solutions.
SECTION 4. Purpose. The purpose of this ordinance is to mitigate and manage traffic
congestion within Batangas City, to enhance the overall transportation system, minimize traffic-
related disruptions, and create a more organized and efficient flow of vehicles to improve the
quality of life for residents, promote public safety, and contribute to the sustainable development.
SECTION 5. Coverage. This ordinance shall apply to the entire jurisdiction of Batangas City,
encompassing all roads, streets, and public spaces within its boundaries. The coverage extends to
both vehicular and pedestrian traffic to ensure a comprehensive approach to addressing and
managing traffic congestion.
SECTION 6. General Provisions.
a) The Batangas City Government shall collaborate with relevant stakeholders,
including local communities, businesses, and transportation authorities, to ensure
effective implementation of traffic management strategies.
 b) Penalties and fines may be imposed on individuals or entities found in violation of
the traffic management regulations, with the funds generated contributing to
further traffic improvement initiatives.
c) The city shall invest in the development and maintenance of infrastructure to
alleviate traffic congestion and enhance transportation systems.
d) Strict enforcement of traffic rules and regulations shall be carried out to ensure
public safety and efficient traffic flow.
e) The city shall develop and implement plans for effective traffic management
during emergencies or unforeseen events.
f) Adequate signage and road markings will be maintained and improved to guide
motorists and pedestrians, promoting a safer and more organized traffic
environment.
g) Regular maintenance and repair of roads, bridges, and other transportation
infrastructure will be conducted to prevent deterioration and ensure the safety of
commuters.
SECTION 7. Implementing Rules and Regulations. The Batangas City Traffic Management
Office, under the guidance of the City Mayor, will play a pivotal role in enforcing the rules and
regulations outlined in the ordinance. The said rules and regulations pertaining to the ordinance
will outline specific measures to be taken, such as implementing traffic flow improvements,
enhancing public transportation systems, and addressing environmental concerns related to
congestion. To ensure that the city's transportation strategies align with sustainable practices,
fostering a safe and efficient urban environment for residents while minimizing negative impacts
on the environment.
SECTION 8. Composition of the Board. The Board shall be composed of seven (7) members
as follows:

Chairperson: City Mayor

Co - Chairperson : TMO President
Members: Any designated employees of the following offices:

a) City Engineering Office

 b) Public Safety Office
c) Public Works and Highways Office
d) Department of Transportation (DOTr)
e) Environmental Protection Office
SECTION 9. Penalty Clause. Any person found violating the provisions of this ordinance shall
be penalized as follows:
a) For individuals who are illegally parking in designated no-parking zones:
First Offense - Php 1,000.00 and shall be subject to a warning
Second Offense - Php 2,000.00 and face license sanctions.
b) For individuals who are recklessly driving causing substantial disruptions:
First Offense - Php 5,000.00 and a probationary period for their driving privileges
might be imposed.
Second Offense - Php 8,000.00 and a longer suspension of driving privileges.
SECTION 10. Repealing Clause. Any previous ordinances or parts thereof that conflict with
the provisions of this ordinance, are hereby repealed, modified, or amended accordingly.
SECTION 11. Separability Clause. If any section, paragraph, sentence or word of this
ordinance is declared invalid or unconstitutional, the remaining provisions shall remain in full
force and effect.
SECTION 12. Effectivity Clause. This ordinance shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its
publication in a local newspaper of general circulation and upon compliance with other legal
requirements.