In the third quarter of the year, there have been 35 cases of violations under RA 10586, the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013, in Baguio City.  

This is significantly higher compared to just 5 cases recorded during the same period in 2023.  

The Traffic Enforcement Unit of the Baguio City Police Office admits that it is challenging to apprehend drunk drivers.  

Before imposing penalties, traffic enforcement units must go through a lengthy process.

PCol. Francisco Bulwayam Jr., City Director of the Baguio City Police Office, said, “We’re primarily relying on medical examinations initially because we have an ordinance that mandates the BCPO to implement the anti-drunk ordinance as directed by the city council.”

However, they lack the necessary equipment to enforce this effectively.

“Medical certificates and examinations are needed to confirm visible signs of liquor influence to implement this anti-drunk policy,” Bulwayan mentioned.

To determine if someone is drunk, their blood alcohol concentration level must be below 0.05%.

This can be identified more quickly with an alcohol breath analyzer, which is why the local government plans to purchase one.

Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong stated, “We need evidence-based data. You can’t just say someone is drunk because they smell like alcohol; there must be scientific data to back it up.”

“We assure you that while waiting for the breath analyzers, we will continue to implement measures,” Bulwayan added.

Under RA 10586, violators face fines ranging from 50,000 to 100,000 pesos and imprisonment for six months.  

Penalties may increase if the driver causes physical injury.  

Their licenses may also be confiscated and suspended for up to 12 months or one year.  

By: Vanessa Bugtong