ILOILO — Authorities in Iloilo Province have set an ambitious “zero accident” target for the Holy Week exodus, mobilizing a multi-agency safety plan as thousands of travelers are expected to flood roads, terminals, and transport hubs across the province.
The Provincial Task Force on Road Safety (PTFRS) – Technical Working Group (TWG) convened early this week to finalize coordinated operations aimed at preventing road crashes and ensuring orderly travel during Semana Santa.
The meeting, led by the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) and Provincial Community Defense Officer Cornelio Salinas, focused on tightening enforcement and emergency response measures amid the anticipated spike in passenger movement.
Central to the plan is the full rollout of “Oplan Ligtas Byahe” by key agencies, including the Land Transportation Office (LTO), Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Department of Health (DOH), and provincial government offices.
Law enforcement authorities emphasized strict adherence to safety protocols, with the IPPO reiterating Police Regional Office-6 advisories under “Gabay sa Paglalakbay” and “Gabay sa Pagmamaneho.”
Under travel guidelines, commuters are urged to:
* arrive early at transport terminals
* bring sufficient water, money, and essentials
* stay alert against pickpockets
* know the location of first-aid stations, police desks, and hotlines
Motorists, meanwhile, are reminded to:
* ensure they are physically fit to drive and remain calm
* wear seatbelts or helmets at all times
* follow the vehicle travel safety checklist
* observe traffic laws and maintain safe distances
* avoid using mobile phones while driving
* refrain from drinking alcohol before driving
The IPPO also stressed heightened vigilance during the summer season, advising travelers to:
* stay alert and aware of surroundings
* avoid unsafe areas, especially at night
* secure valuables
* follow local safety rules
* report suspicious activities immediately
Meanwhile, the LTO and LTFRB are continuing inspections under “Oplan Byaheng Ayos: Semana Santa and Summer Vacation 2026,” which began March 23.
Enforcement teams are conducting terminal inspections across the region to ensure vehicle roadworthiness and maintain order in transport hubs.
Authorities underscored that the success of the zero-accident goal hinges not only on enforcement but also on public cooperation./PN
