LTO Boosts Road Presence for Christmas Season to Ensure Safety

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has deployed additional personnel across major routes to enhance road safety amid the expected surge in vehicles during the Christmas and New Year holidays.

LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Vigor Mendoza II emphasized the importance of visibility on the roads during this busy period:

“Our visibility on the road is important, especially as we expect the increase of motor vehicles on the road in the days leading to Christmas and New Year.”

Focus on Truck-Related Incidents

In response to recent fatal truck-related accidents in Quezon City and Parañaque City, the LTO has prioritized monitoring truck routes and enforcing stricter safety measures:

• Personnel will be stationed during hours when truck bans are lifted and trucks are actively traveling.
• Random inspections will focus on ensuring roadworthiness, particularly brakes.

The LTO has also suspended the licenses of the truck drivers involved in the accidents for 90 days and issued show cause orders to the owners and drivers.

Enhanced Coordination and Inspections

To manage the holiday traffic surge, the LTO is augmenting personnel from the following agencies:

• Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA)
• Local government traffic units
• Philippine National Police (PNP)

In provinces, LTO officials will collaborate with local government units and police forces to assist in traffic management.

Passenger buses will also undergo surprise inspections and drivers will be subject to random drug testing to ensure safety.

A Call to Transport Operators

Mendoza appealed to truck and transport operators to uphold their responsibility to ensure their vehicles and drivers are fit for the road:

“This is part of their obligation to their business, clients, employees, and all road users.”

Goal: A Safe and Smooth Holiday Season

The LTO’s intensified road safety measures aim to prevent accidents and ensure a smooth journey for motorists and commuters during the festive season.