BAGUIO CITY — Mayor Benjamin Magalong has called for the review and amendment of Ordinance No. 18, series of 2019, otherwise known as the Speed Limit Ordinance of Baguio City, citing the need for more context-appropriate speed restrictions across different roads in the city.
Speaking to the city’s traffic and transportation team, Magalong emphasized that the current limits—20 kilometers per hour within the Central Business District and 30 kph on inner roads—do not suit the actual road conditions in several key areas.
“We have to be discerning regarding our speed limits. We need to amend our ordinance as there are speed limits that are not advisable,” Magalong said.
“We tried running at 30 kph along South Drive and it is not advisable. It should be around 40 kph. Same is true with Loakan Road, Kennon Road, and Marcos Highway.”
The mayor noted that although the ordinance was intended to curb traffic accidents, many of which are attributed to human error, there must be a balance between safety and practical driving conditions.
The City Engineering Office’s Traffic and Transportation Management Division, the Baguio City Police Office (BCPO) Traffic Enforcement Unit, and the City Legal Office have been tasked to draft the proposed amendments for submission to the City Council.
To enforce the current speed limits, the city has already taken steps including the procurement of speed monitoring equipment such as radar guns and sensors.
BCPO City Director PCol Ruel Tagel confirmed that a breath analyzer is now in use for field testing, with more to be purchased soon.
Additional signage—including “Slow Down” notices near schools—has been installed along major roads like Bokawkan, Magsaysay, Loakan, and Legarda in partnership with the Department of Public Works and Highways to support enforcement efforts.
Mayor Magalong emphasized that the city’s goal is not only enforcement but also ensuring that policies are practical, safe, and aligned with the realities on the ground.
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