LAOAG CITY - The Laoag City traffic management office has warned drivers of public utility vehicles against overloading.

Some of the tricycles going to schools in Barangay Gabu Norte have been seen overloaded with up to 10 passengers, most of them elementary and high school students.

According Traffic Division Chief SPO2 Sean Francis Bugaoisan, tricycles are limited to only three passengers, with a back rider.

Aside from a fine of P100 to P500, violators may face cancellation of franchise and criminal case.

"Ang traffic violations ay hindi lang pag-iissue ng ticket, maari pang mapilahan ng criminal case," Bugaoisan said.

Some parents fear for their children’s safety and are not allowing them to commute on their own.

"Lagi ko siyang inaangkas para ihatid sa school para mas panatag ako lalo't ganito ang nakikita ko mga overloaded na tricycle," Elpidio Tungpalan said.

Barangay chairman Cerafin Asierto admitted that this has been long-standing issue in their barangay, since drivers do not follow rules.

They are closely working with the traffic division to stop overloading activities of some drivers. Barangay officials are also deputized by the traffic division to issue ticket to the violators.

Meanwhile, the traffic division is encouraging the public to take pictures and report drivers who are overloading.