Research and Rationale Supporting the Ordinance
- Highlights studies showing impaired driving caused by phone usage while driving.
- Demonstrates reduced reaction times, increased lane drifting, and decreased vehicle control among drivers using cell phones.
- Notes hands-free phones are equally distracting due to "inattention blindness."
- Presents statistical evidence linking cell phone use while driving to increased accident risk comparable to impaired driving from alcohol.
Coverage and Scope
- Applies to all drivers of motorized vehicles (including trucks, vans, cars, jeeps, motorcycles) operating within Valenzuela City.
Definitions
- Cellphone: Handheld mobile phone.
- Wireless Phone: Wireless landline phone.
- Motorized Vehicle: Any engine-powered vehicle running on fuel.
- Driver: Person operating any motorized vehicle.
Policy and Application
- Strict prohibition against use of handheld or wireless phones by drivers while driving within Valenzuela City routes.
Penalties for Violation
- First offense: Warning issued.
- Second offense: Fine of Php 300.
- Third offense: Fine of Php 500.
Enforcement Authorities
- Implementation and enforcement entrusted to the Office of the City Mayor via Task Force Disiplina, Traffic Management Office (TMO), and Valenzuela PNP Traffic Division.
- Authority to issue traffic violation tickets for ordinance breaches.
Use of Collected Fines
- Fines collected are allocated to a Special Trust Fund supporting Valenzuela City's Out-of-School Youth Programs.
Exemptions
- Law enforcers on official duty.
- Authorized ambulance and rescue vehicle drivers on duty.
- Persons responding to emergencies or providing public service.
- TV and radio news reporters.
- COMELEC election officers during elections.
Implementation and Guidelines
- Executive Department mandated to formulate implementing rules and guidelines within 60 days of ordinance approval.
Repealing Clause
- Repeals or modifies any existing inconsistent executive orders, administrative regulations, city or barangay ordinances and resolutions.
Separability Clause
- Invalidity of any part of the ordinance does not affect the remaining provisions, which remain in full force.
Effectivity
- Ordinance takes effect 75 working days after publication in a newspaper of general circulation and issuance of implementing rules and guidelines by the Executive Department.