THE driver of the cement mixer truck that spilled wet cement along AS Fortuna Street in Mandaue City on Saturday, November 16, 2024 has been identified and issued several citations for environmental violations and reckless driving.

The offending driver was slapped with a total fine of P5,000, Mandaue Traffic Enforcement Agency (Team) Chief Hyll Retuya told reporters Wednesday, November 20, 2024.

“Drivers should ensure their vehicle is in good condition before hitting the road. This incident could have been avoided if proper checks were made,” Retuya said in Cebuano.

The incident, which occurred around 1 p.m., caused traffic jams that lasted two to three hours and raised safety concerns due to dust and debris scattered along the roadway.

Motorists alerted the driver by honking their horns, but it took some time before the driver noticed the spill, Retuya said.

Team officers initially flagged down the driver, but he managed to escape.

Surrender

“Certainly, there was a slight lapse on our part in the initial response. However, the driver finally surrendered last Tuesday (November 19),” Retuya said.

Retuya said the driver apologized and explained that a faulty lock on the truck had caused the cement to spill.

Despite its appeal for leniency, Team imposed fines because the incident caused inconvenience and danger.

Team personnel cleaned the affected area to ensure the cement would not harden.

Retuya said the truck was deployed despite its poor condition.

“Before deploying vehicles, companies must ensure that their condition meets standards. These problems not only compromise traffic flow but also public safety,” he said.

Retuya reminded motorists to strictly obey traffic laws and keep their vehicles in good condition.

“In Mandaue, our officers are visible and strict in traffic management. We impose penalties for violations in order to maintain order on our roads,” he said. / CAV