BAGUIO CITY – The Cordillera offices of the Department of Transportation (DOTR-CAR) and the Land Transportation Office (LTO-CAR) remain committed in implementing a wide range of initiatives that aggressively promote road safety to reduce the occurrence of road crashes that compromise life and limb.
DOTR-CAR regional director lawyer Joshua Pablito underscored that one of the ongoing initiatives being strictly enforced is to ensure that only those qualified are issued driver’s licenses.
He claimed that part of the initiative is organizing road safety seminars for drivers and other road users, providing free theoretical driving courses, conducting sustained law enforcement activities, such as enhanced roadside visibility and distributing information and educational materials to raise awareness on the importance of road safety.
“Through these continued actions, we strive to foster a safer and more responsible environment for all,” Pablito stressed.
Last November 17, 2024, the DOTR-CAR and LTO-CAR, together with the Cordillera office of the land Transportation Franchising Regulatory Board (LTFRB-CAR), the Baguio City Police Office (BCPO) led by City Director Police Col. Ruel Tagel, the Highway Patrol Group (HPG) and On Call 911, led the commemoration of the World Day of Remembrance for Road Crash Victims, Survivors and their Families, which is an annual international event dedicated to honoring those who have lost their lives or have been severely impacted by road crashes. It is day that holds profound meaning for families and communities worldwide, offering a moment to reflect on the lives lost, the survivors and the love ones left behind.
The candle lighting ceremony for the said commemoration was held along the Suello Village Road, one of the accident-prone areas in the city.
“Today, we stand united in remembering the victims and the lasting trauma endured by survivors. Support and solidarity are needed more than ever, and we hold a shared wish that one day, this day will no longer be necessary. But until then, we must increase awareness to prevent these tragedies. Small, truthful actions can save lives, it’s making safer choices on the road, investing in safer infrastructure, or improving emergency care systems. Walking, cycling, and public transport are essential parts of a sustainable future, but we must ensure they are safe options for all,” he said.
According to him, recklessness can destroy the lives of others and the goal must be to prevent any more families from enduring the pain of loss and to allow everyone to live free from the fear of road dangers.
Pablito pointed out that the government and the public do not want to continue remembering victims each year; and that they want to continue living with their love ones by their side.
“Let’s turn the memories of those lost into lessons learned and let us strive towards a vision of zero death on our roads. Together we can make a difference,” Pablito added.
Pablito said that the agencies continue to be steadfast in ensuring that transportation laws are strictly implemented to guarantee discipline among motorists to prevent the occurrence of more road crashes along various roads regionwide. By Dexter A. See
