Baguio: The city government here continues to implement anti-road obstruction (ARO) not just to enforce a violation but for public health and safety, an official said Wednesday.

According to Philippines News Agency, Public Order and Safety Division (POSD) chief Daryl Kim Longid stated that parking in lay-by areas along roads will no longer be allowed to prevent those who park from dumping waste and dirtying the area. "We used to allow parking on lay-by areas, but the undisciplined actions of the public using them have led to the decision," Longid said in an interview.

Around three tons of garbage were collected from the lay-by along Marcos Highway, where the area was also found to be used as a makeshift toilet and a drinking spot. The same situation was noted at the lay by along Loakan Road. "We will be placing tarpaulins that say parking is not allowed because you do not know how to use this area properly," Longid explained.

The official said their mandate is to ensure orderliness, and they continue to receive calls from barangay officials and residents to implement ARO. "We receive an average of 20 calls daily, which we must act on. They also contact the police station covering the barangays, which we both respond to within 24 hours," he said.

Road obstruction has been identified as a cause of accidents, especially in dimly lit areas and on national highways where incoming vehicles are unaware of obstructions on the road, most of which are illegally parked vehicles. While barangays have been deputized to implement ARO and issue tickets, most are unable to perform the function, with many unable to liquidate and report on the utilization of citation tickets subject to Commission on Audit review.

Longid said they also monitor obstructions on walkways where construction materials are left unattended.