www.nordis.net

DOE Sec assures transparency in fuel pricing
By Lito Dar/JDP/LD- PIA CAR

BAGUIO CITY — Department of Energy Secretary Jose Rene Almendras assured that the government is practicing transparency as far as fuel pricing is concerned, contrary to claims of some groups.

In a media interview during the DOE Information Education and Communication (IEC) Road Show here last week, Almendras said every Monday they are meeting with the different transport sector representatives so that together they can review and monitor the changes in the price of fuels in the international market and to determine how it can affect the fuel prices in the country.

“As much as we want to control the prices of fuel, we cannot compete with a deregulated international market and at present there is also no country or economy in the world that can control or regulate the world oil market. Our country presently lacks the resources to interfere or subsidize the price of fuels as what some countries have been doing,” Almendras stressed. #

* * * * *

City to close down Session pedestrians lanes
By Redjie Cawis/JDP/RC-PIA CAR

BAGUIO CITY — The city council passed a resolution that will close down several pedestrian crossings along Session Road starting September 5 to facilitate smoother flow in the Central Business District.

Traffic and Transportation Management Committee (TTMC) technical consultant, Engr. Teodorico Tan said to be closed are the pedestrian lanes near the Post Office fronting the PLDT, Mercury Drug at the foot of Session Road and Cid Bookstore fronting the Prime Hotel. Tan said that the pedestrian closure will remain effective for 30 days on an experimental basis only

The TTMC also rerouted several jeepneys plying the route of Harrison Road heading to Upper Session Road by letting all vehicles pass through the UP Drive going up the Baguio Convention Center, Session Road and to areas along Loakan Road. #

* * * * *

Smoking in city streets soon to be banned
By Paul Rillorta/PIO

BAGUIO CITY — Committee on Health & Sanitation Chair and Councilor Erdolfo Balajadia passed the amendments to the smoking ordinance to ban smoking along city streets is considered.

The Comprehensive Anti-Smoking ordinance of the city specifically bans smoking in public utility vehicles, government owned vehicles and any other means of public transport, accommodation and entertainment establishments, public building and public place or any enclosed area outside one’s private residence or private place of work.

Balajadia said, ‘there is a need to include in the ordinance banning smoking along barangay roads and public alleys, national roads within the City of Baguio, Central Business District areas and barangays’.

Liabilities of persons or individuals caught violating this ordinance will be subjected to a fine of 500 to 2000 pesos or imprisonment of 1 to six months or both. #