₱593K in traffic fines in 12 days: 935 violations expose road discipline problem in Kalinga

TABUK CITY, Kalinga — Nearly ₱600,000 in traffic fines collected in just 12 days has raised concerns over road discipline in Kalinga, with police saying the high number of violations reflects motorists’ continued failure to follow basic traffic rules.

From August 17 to 28, 2026, police officers manning checkpoints across the province recorded 935 traffic violations, resulting in a total of ₱593,275 in fines, according to Kalinga Police Provincial Office spokesperson PMaj. Ruff Manganip.

In an interview with GURU Press Cordillera, Manganip said ₱462,525 in fines were recorded in Tabuk City, while ₱105,800 came from Pinukpuk. The remaining municipalities recorded comparatively fewer violations.

The most common violation was driving without a helmet, accounting for 511 cases, or more than half of the total violations.

This was followed by driving without a driver’s license, with 146 cases.

‘Lack of discipline’

Asked why police continue to record a high number of traffic violations, Manganip attributed it largely to a lack of discipline among motorists.

He said basic road safety practices, such as wearing a helmet and carrying a valid driver’s license, should already be routine for anyone operating a motorcycle or other vehicle—not something motorists should only remember when they encounter a checkpoint.

“Agkurkurang tayo iti disiplina, nga apay nga kasapulan nga ibagbaga tayo nga ag-helmet tayo, apay nga agala kayo iti driver’s license, ket part iti discipline kuma diay. Given kuman diay,” Manganip said.

He also questioned why some parents allow their children to operate motorcycles without the necessary license.

Students among those flagged

Manganip said students are also among those being apprehended during routine checkpoints for driving without helmets, licenses and other required safety measures.

“Iti kaadwan nga makitkita tayo ket dagitoy estudyante, ket apay nga ipalubos tayo. As a parent, it’s your obligation,” he said.

He urged parents to ensure that their children comply with licensing requirements before allowing them to drive motorcycles.

Manganip also warned against motorcycle modifications that may violate traffic regulations, including excessively loud or altered mufflers.

Checkpoints for public safety

Manganip emphasized that the checkpoints conducted by the police and other authorities are intended primarily to protect motorists and other road users.

He said road accidents remain a major concern in Kalinga, particularly in Tabuk City, making compliance with traffic rules crucial to preventing injuries and saving lives.

The nearly ₱600,000 in fines collected in less than two weeks, he noted, should serve not simply as a measure of enforcement but as a reminder that motorists still need to take greater responsibility for following basic traffic and road-safety rules.