LTO deploys more traffic enforcers this Christmas聽
This photo taken on October 10, 2024 shows heavy traffic along Edsa during evening rush hour in Manila. —Photo by Jam Sta Rosa/Agence France-Presse
MANILA, Philippines — The Land Transportation Office (LTO) will deploy more of its personnel on the road amid the expected increase in the volume of vehicles for the Christmas season.
LTO chief Vigor Mendoza II on Sunday ordered all regional directors and heads of law enforcement units at the local level to intensify road presence, especially on the road safety operation on trucks through deployment of personnel on usual truck routes in Metro Manila and other areas across the country.
READ: 10% heavier traffic ahead: Christmas rush to choke Metro Manila – MMDA
“The checking should be random and unless there is a violation, they should always be reminded to exercise caution and ensure that the brakes are working,” Mendoza said in a statement.
The LTO’s new order came after the involvement of two trucks in two fatal accidents in Quezon City and Parañaque City on Thursday and Friday. At least five were reported killed and 35 were injured in the two mishaps.
Article continues after this advertisementMendoza urged truck owners and operators to ensure the roadworthiness of their vehicles.
Article continues after this advertisementIn compliance, several LTO enforcers were immediately deployed along major roads and truck routes, especially in Metro Manila.
Mendoza said the presence of LTO law enforcement personnel is a good deterrent to road accidents, as the LTO vehicle and uniform themselves are compelling even the erring motorists to behave.
“Our visibility on the road is important especially that we expect the increase of motor vehicles on the road on the days leading to the Christmas and New Year,” he added.
For the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), reimposing the truck ban will not prevent the occurrence of road mishaps involving trucks.
“A truck ban will only hamper the flow of goods, which will result in additional costs that will be passed on to consumers. It will only slow down our trade and commerce, which will have a negative impact on our economy,” MMDA Chair Don Artes said in a press conference on Friday.
“The return of the truck ban is not the solution to accidents, even at night. If the vehicles are not maintained and the driver is not disciplined, there will still be accidents involving trucks, but only [at] a different time of the day,” the MMDA chief explained.
The agency said it would reach out to the association of truckers to remind them about maintenance of their trucks, which should be inspected regularly by the LTO.
The total truck ban in Metro Manila has been suspended since 2021 “until further notice,” under MMDA Resolution No. 21-30 series of 2021.
