With thousands of Filipinos expected to travel for All Saints' and All Souls' Day, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) is ramping up safety measures to ensure smooth and secure journeys for holiday travelers.
According to a press release, LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Vigor Mendoza II directed regional offices to conduct thorough roadworthiness checks on passenger buses nationwide.
Following orders from the Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Jaime Bautista, LTO teams will perform random inspections and drug tests on bus drivers and conductors. Mendoza stressed that these checks are crucial for public safety as bus operators prepare for the influx of passengers heading to the provinces
"We expect the bus companies to do their part in ensuring safe travel for our kababayan. On the part of the LTO, the intervention is on the inspection of passenger buses and the conduct of random and surprise drug testing," he said.
To manage the expected traffic surge, especially with government offices observing a half-day on October 31, the LTO will deploy personnel to assist on major roads in coordination with the Philippine National Police.
Mendoza advised travelers to plan their routes in advance, particularly those heading to areas affected by recent weather disturbances.
For private motorists, Mendoza reminded drivers to check their vehicles’ roadworthiness before hitting the road, emphasizing that brakes, tires, and other key components should be in good condition, especially for those traveling with family.
"I-check nating maigi ang mga preno, ang mga gulong at ibang mga basic parts ng sasakyan na pwedeng magbigay ng sakit ng ulo sa gitna ng ating biyahe," said Mendoza.
"And most importantly, magbaon tayo ng mahabang pasensya. Walang maibubunga ang init ng ulo sa daan," he added
Commuters who observe road misbehavior can report it via the LTO hotline "Aksyon on the Spot" at 09292920865.
