Congressman wants to penalize enforcers for wrongful apprehension

Bill filed to protect motorists from wrongful apprehension

Imagine this: you were pulled over by a traffic enforcer for a violation that you didn't commit. You try to reason out with the apprehending officer, but he/she is firm with the decision. By now, you're thinking of the time you'll have to waste trying to pay the fine or trying to get back your license when you didn’t even commit an infraction.

How many of us have experienced this kind of anxiety and stress? Thankfully, one lawmaker plans to put an end to that.

1-Rider party-list representative Bonifacio Bosita has filed House Bill 3366 or An Act Enforcing Fair Traffic Apprehension, Granting For The Purpose of Compensation to Driver of Motor Vehicles for Improper Traffic Apprehension and Imposing Administrative Sanctions for Erring Traffic Enforcement Personnel. That's a long name, but according to Congressman Bosita, this House Bill will seek to promote fair chances for both motorist and enforcement personnel.

If you've ever contested a traffic violation (a wrongful one, hopefully) then you'll know how difficult, frustrating, and time-consuming it is. This basically means that if the bill continues on to become law, the apprehended motorist may get compensation if they are able to prove their innocence and the traffic enforcer may be charged with an administrative case. 

We don’t have the complete text of this law at this time but we sure would like to find out the parameters as this could be a big help to motorists on Philippine roads. If this becomes law, enforcers will have to be more aware of their actions and be more mindful of the apprehensions they make. At the same time, it doesn't relieve the motorist of the responsibility to drive, uh, responsibly.