Local LTO urges travelers to be extra-careful during the Holy week

By PJTremedal

Pagadian City – Local authorities of the Land Transportation Office under the supervision of Regional Director Atty. Aminola Abaton has urged the public especially those travelling from their homes to their provinces or vacation areas during the Lenten season should always be cautious and follow suggestions of the office for a safe travel.

Abaton told this newsline that, Head office of the DOTC has instructed them to do all means to inform the public on safety measures, rules and regulations adopted by the Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC).

Nationwide, Pilgrims and vacationers should keep safety in mind to survive Semana Santa without tragedies. Transportation and Communication Assistant Secretary Thompson Lantion advised motorists and other travelers to observe safety measures and plan their trips before leaving their homes.

Those who would traveling by land, Lantion said they should check the chassis, wipers, tires, batteries, engines and other parts of their vehicles to ensure a convenient and safe journey to their destinations.

Lantion appealed for safe trip to all vacationers to avoid accidents during the holidays.

Recently in Batangas, a jeepney fell in ravine killing an excursionist and left several companions injured while two children were killed and eight others injured after a van smashed their jeepney in Isabela.

Lantion ensured that the DOTC is working closely the Philippine National Police to ensure public safety.

He said law enforcers’ presence will be felt through help desks set up in public markets, terminals and other public areas.

Radyo ng Bayan reported that some cities, such as Baguio City PNP, activated its “cops in the mall” program to watch over growing hordes of vacationers at the city of pines.

Canine units, meanwhile, are checking baggages at the Araneta Bus Terminal where buses leave for Bicolandia every five minutes.

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) are calling on bus drivers not over-extend themselves to be able to reach their destinations safe and sound.

LTFRB Chair Alberto Suansing said bus drivers should limit their driving time to eight hours to keep themselves effective and alert on the road.

A good sleep, Suansing said, could help bus drivers to steer clear of killer accidents. Suansing added that all drivers must also avoid rushing and stick to traffic rules.

The public may send suggestions and other information to the DOTC hotline 7890. (with reports from Jun Corgue, PIA-Pagadian)

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