CITY OF TABUK, Kalinga, (PIA) – – The inter-agency Kapehan body composed of various national agencies and local offices called on parents not to allow their minor children to drive and those at the right age not to drive without license.
This was the body’s action to address vehicular traffic accidents (VTA) in the province specially on this city’s main thoroughfares and particularly along the Bulanao-Dagupan provincial road where there are increasing numbers of minors involved and victims in VTAs.
Through the report of the Philippine National Police (PNP), conduct of information, education and communication is recommended with parents telling their minor children not to drive especially motorcycles. Parents-Teachers Associations will also be tapped to adopt policies helpful in preventing VTAs.
In Tabuk City alone, 44 cases of VTAs were recorded – three cases of reckless imprudence resulting (RIR) in homicide, 30 cases of RIR in physical injuries, nine RIR in damage to property, and two RIR in self-inflicted injuries from January to March 15.
For the province last year, 287 cases of VTA were recorded and 345 in 2016 with a lot of cases involving minors. Other VTA cases are drivers under the influence of liquor; over speeding especially of motor cycle riders; death and injuries caused by motor cycle riders not wearing protective gear.
The body also recommended for the strict implementation of the “no driver’s license, no driving policy”; the use of helmet and other protective gear. DPWH to install signages, meeting with transport groups, for LTO to deputize the PNP to help in traffic management and in the installation of CCTV cameras.
LGUs are also urged to pass ordinances on over speeding and providing heavy fines.
Engr. Ruby Uyam of the Lower Kalinga District Engineering Office reiterated the ban on palay drying on national highways. Jenelyn Angog of the LTO said they will acquire next week three breath analyzers to help them detect drunk drivers.
Gov. Jocel Baac ordered the clearing of provincial roads of traffic obstructions – construction materials and debris, illegally parked vehicles, makeshift stalls – to allow smooth flow of traffic and prevent accidents. **By Peter Balocnit
