BACOLOD City – The Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) here is urging the Land Transportation Office (LTO), through the City Mayor’s Office (CMO), to intensify its efforts in promoting safe driving and raising awareness to address persistent traffic and road safety concerns in the city.
The call was made following the approval of a resolution authored by Councilor Claudio Jesus Puentevella in line with the national observance of Road Safety Month.
Stipulated in Republic Act No. 7160, also known as the Local Government Code of 1991, that local government units (LGUs) shall exercise powers expressly granted to adopt measures necessary for effective governance and the promotion of general welfare.
May has been declared as Road Safety Month under Presidential Proclamation No. 115-A, and this year’s theme is: “Drive to Protect: Safe Streets, Safe Children.”
Puentevella emphasized that the theme serves as a timely reminder of the urgent need to create safer roads — especially for children and other vulnerable road users. He underscored the importance of proactive measures such as promoting vigilance, defensive driving, and proper road etiquette to prevent accidents and ensure a safer land travel experience.
Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) showed that road traffic deaths reached an all-time high of 11,096 in 2021, making it the leading cause of death among Filipinos aged 15 to 29 years old.
“Studies accord these road traffic deaths to be one of the major public health concerns yet remains to be overlooked,” Puentevella noted.
Earlier, the SP also passed a resolution urging relevant agencies — including the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) — to implement heightened safety measures during mass gatherings and public events.
Councilor Em Ang stressed the importance of preparedness protocols, citing recent incidents that exposed gaps in safety systems.
The most recent tragedy occurred on April 18, 2025 during a Good Friday procession in Barangay Alangilan, where a vehicular accident claimed the lives of three individuals and injured 17 others./PN
