A number of drowning and vehicular accidents and an explosion at a police station were recorded nationwide during the Lenten season this year but the Philippine National Police announced on Easter Sunday that the observance of the Holy Week has been generally peaceful and orderly.
“The observance of Holy Week is generally peaceful and orderly,” said Police Col. Bernard Banac, PNP spokesperson.
Banac appealed to the traveling public to observe safety practices as the traditional exodus to the provinces winds down and people start to return to their areas of residence or work.
He cited the case of a tragic vehicular accident in Tabuk City, Kalinga on Good Friday when a dump truck fell into a ravine that resulted into the death of at least seven persons and wounding of 15 others.
“The PNP reminds the public to take extra precaution when travelling especially when using their own vehicles. The safety tips are also given to travelers and tourists taking public transportation and via air or sea travel,” Banac said.
The PNP said at least 51 vehicular accidents have been reported to the police nationwide since April 5. At least 30 deaths due to drowning incidents have been recorded as of April 20.
Most of the fatalities were in Calabarzon (Region 4A) with eight; Central Luzon (Region 3) with seven; and Central Visayas (Region 7) with six.
Ilocos region (Region 1) has at least three deaths due to drowning incidents; Cagayan Valley has two; while National Capital Region (NCR), Mimaropa (Region 4B), Northern Mindanao (Region 10), and Caraga (Region 13) has one apiece.
Metro Manila and Mindanao remain on full alert status while other regions are on heightened alert status. Banac said this will be maintained leading to the May 13 midterm elections.
Around 91,000 cops have been deployed for the Holy Week to ensure the safety and security of the public who would be returning to their homes.
For the traveling public who use their own cars, Banac advised them to check on their BLOWBAGETS or battery, light, oil, water, brakes, air, gas, engine, tires, and self for a safe trip.
He also said smartphone applications can also be helpful in planning a roadtrip by selecting the shortest and safest route; and identifying motorist’s assistance points, rest stops, and police outposts.
Vehicle documents such as Certificate of Registration, Official Receipt, and driver’s license shall always be kept inside the vehicle in case of emergency and checkpoint, Banac added. (Martin Sadongdong)
