PNP intensifies road safety operations as Undas exodus begins
(April 23 2025) Traffic situation North and Southbound along Edsa in Guadalupe on Wednesday April 23 2025. The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has announced plans to create two special teams that will focus on the agency's intensified campaign against drivers who are drunk or involved in illegal drugs and unsightly vehicles. According to LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Vigor Mendoza II, possible that within this week, a memo for the said team will be issued to be mandated in each region, and will begin deployment in May., The move is in line with the directive of Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Vince Dizon, to tighten road safety policies. Photo/Analy Labor
The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Tuesday intensified road safety operations ahead of the Undas exodus, directing police commanders nationwide to help prevent road accidents and ensure the safe travel of motorists and passengers.
PNP chief Police Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. ordered regional and local police units to strengthen patrols along major highways, accident-prone roads, and routes leading to cemeteries and transport terminals as millions of Filipinos prepare to travel for the annual observance.
He also directed police units to conduct information campaigns reminding motorists to inspect their brakes, tires, lights, and other critical vehicle components before traveling.
The move aligns with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s directive, through the guidance of Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, to enforce safety measures and maintain peace and order nationwide during the holiday travel season.
“Our goal is not only to respond to emergencies but to help prevent them through vigilance, discipline, and timely intervention. I have directed our police commanders to strengthen coordination with local government units and traffic authorities, increase police visibility along major travel routes and accident-prone areas, and ensure prompt assistance to motorists,” Nartatez said.
The PNP is deploying more than 72,000 police personnel nationwide for this year’s Undas, with additional support from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine Coast Guard, local government units, and other force multipliers.
The police force will be placed under full alert status from 30 October 30 to 2 November.
Nartatez stressed that police visibility alone cannot eliminate road accidents, emphasizing that road safety also depends on the preparedness and discipline of every road user.
He reminded motorists to avoid speeding, distracted driving, and driving while fatigued. Drivers were also urged to exercise extra caution on downhill roads, sharp curves, and heavily congested routes, particularly during peak travel periods.
“Every safe journey begins with responsible decisions. Check your vehicle, obey traffic laws, avoid risky behavior, and never let haste compromise safety. Passengers also play an important role. Speak up when you see unsafe driving because protecting lives is a responsibility we all share,” Nartatez said.