Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 5) — Transportation agencies gave last-minute reminders to motorists as traffic surge is expected to peak on Thursday with millions of Filipinos observing Holy Week.
Officials and expressway operators earlier said traffic volume would be heavy leading to the long weekend, starting Thursday.With the traffic situation now back to pre-pandemic levels, the Land Transportation Office shared the following tips on Wednesday to make sure Filipinos would be safe on the road for their five-day break:
Check vehicle’s road worthiness
LTO chief Jay Art Tugade said motorists must perform regular maintenance, such as oil changes, tune-ups, and battery and tire pressure checks to ensure every passenger’s safety.
Load up RFID
Motorists can avoid delays and long queues along expressways if they make sure their radio frequency identification (RFID) accounts have enough load.
Focus on driving
“Do not text and drive,” Tugade said, as he warned motorists of possible penalties motorists might face if they violate the Anti-Distracted Driving Act.
First offense — ₱5,000
Second offense — ₱10,000Third offense — ₱15,000 plus suspension of their driving license for three monthsFourth offense — ₱20,000 plus revocation of the driving license
Keep the speed limit
‘ ’14’:
Get rest, keep an emergency kit in your vehicle
Get a full 8-hour’s sleep and take regular breaks on long drives. An emergency kit, meanwhile, may include cellphone and car charger, first-aid kit, flashlight, jumper cables, candles and matches, non-perishable food items such as biscuits, water, and blankets.
The agency is on heightened alert until April 10.
Meanwhile, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) warned operators of public utility vehicles and “colorum” vehicles against overloading and overcharging.LTFRB Chairman Teofilo Guadiz III reminded the public to be wary of transport companies or operators who might take advantage of the busy season.“During peak travels, some may take in more passengers than what their vehicles can accommodate safely,” Guadiz said, noting that overloading may endanger the lives of those on board.The LTFRB executive said they have been also receiving reports of overcharging of fares.
