Land Transportation Office Chief Assistant Secretary Atty. Vigor D. Mendoza II appealed over the weekend to motorists not to engage in a drinking session during their parties with friends and co-workers in order to ensure their own safety as they drive home back to their respective families.

Aside from the possibility that they get caught for violating the Republic Act No. 10586, or the "Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013", Mendoza said what is even more scary is that if they would figure in a road accident that does not only put their life and limb at risk but also that of others.

"Kabi-kabila na ang mga last minute Christmas parties at good time with friends and co-workers. Kung kaya naman iwasan ay huwag nang uminom at kung hindi talaga maiiwasan ay tiyakin na may magmamaneho sa inyo pauwi, or better yet, mag-commute na lang kayo," Mendoza said.

"Dahil kung ipipilit ninyong magmaneho na lasing, baka sa ospital na kayo magising o kaya naman ay baka huling tagay niyo na pala dahil sa punerarya at sementeryo na ang diretso ninyo," he added.

Mendoza's warning is in line with the directive of Department of Transportation Secretary Jaime J. Bautista to ensure the safety of all road users especially since the number of vehicles is expected to increase during the Yuletide season.

Mendoza earlier instructed all Regional Directors and District Office heads to maximize the information drive and operation in implementing the "Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013".

According to the World Health Organization, around 1.3 million people die in road accidents around the world every year while between 20 million to 50 million are injured, including injuries that result in permanent disability.

In the Philippines, around 12,000 Filipinos die every year as a result of road accidents, aside from tens of thousands more injuries that also result in permanent disability.

"To our motorists, always remember that you have a spouse, whom you promise to grow old with, children, who still depends on you, and family members who are waiting for you in your homes," Mendoza said.

"Huwag nating ipalit ang kaunting oras ng kaligayahan sa habang buhay na pagsisisi. Maging responsable tayong motorista para wala tayong problema," he added.