Question & AnswerQ&A (Commonwealth Act No. 548)
The main purpose is to regulate and control the use of and traffic on national roads, as well as constructions along these roads, to promote safe transit and avoid obstructions.
The Director of Public Works, with the approval of the Secretary of Public Works and Communications, has the authority to promulgate rules and regulations concerning national roads.
Yes, national roads can be temporarily closed to any or all classes of traffic by the Director of Public Works or his authorized representative whenever the condition of the road or the traffic makes it necessary or advisable in the public interest, with the approval of the Secretary of Public Works and Communications.
The Act allows the control or regulation of the construction of buildings or other structures within a reasonable distance from and along national roads.
No, it is unlawful for any person to convert any part of a national road to private use or to obstruct or damage the road or any of its appurtenances.
Every Constabulary officer and every provincial, city, or municipal police officer is responsible for enforcing the provisions of this Act and the related rules and regulations.
For the first conviction, the penalty is a fine of not less than ten pesos nor more than three months, or both fine and imprisonment.
For the second conviction, the penalty is a fine of not less than twenty nor more than one hundred pesos or imprisonment for not more than six months, or both.
For any subsequent conviction, the penalty is a fine of not less than fifty nor more than five hundred pesos or imprisonment for not more than one year, or both.
The Act took effect upon its approval on May 26, 1940.