LOCAL authorities are urging motorists to exercise extreme caution following a spike in road accidents that left two people dead and several others injured in the first half of December.
Between Dec. 1 and Dec. 17, Gingoog City recorded a series of crashes involving 14 vehicles. According to Gingoog City Police Chief Lt. Col. Dennis de los Santos, the incidents resulted in two fatalities, two serious physical injuries, and three minor injuries. Most of these accidents involved motorcycles.
Practical advice for motorists
To prevent further tragedies, Lt. Col. de los Santos is calling on all drivers to remain vigilant and strictly adhere to the following safety protocols:
Obey all traffic signs: Respect speed limits and road markings.
Lane Discipline: Use designated motorcycle lanes, especially when traveling on the National Highway.
Safe Overtaking: Never attempt to pass another vehicle without a clear view and proper safety precautions.
Holiday safety warning
Engineer Antonnieto M. Paqueo, the newly appointed head of the Land Transportation Office (LTO) Gingoog District, added that holiday celebrations should not be an excuse for negligence. He reminded the public to never drive under the influence of alcohol and to always wear a helmet.
While Paqueo — who took office on Dec. 15 as part of a routine nationwide LTO reshuffling — noted that formal enforcement operations are suspended during the Christmas holidays, he warned that the absence of officers does not mean the absence of danger.“
It is still necessary to be vigilant even without traffic law enforcers in the office for the safety of all,” Paqueo said.
