Strengthening Road Safety through Deputized Agents
In a bid to enhance the implementation of traffic regulations and ensure road safety, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) has deputized an additional 60 agents. These agents are tasked with conducting roadside inspections of vehicles, a move aimed at intensifying the enforcement of traffic rules.
Glen Galario, the LTO-Central Visayas regional director, highlighted that this initiative aligns with the Department of Transportation’s (DOTr) goal to create safer roads for both motorists and commuters.
Tapping Deputized Agents to Ensure Compliance
Glen Galario explained that the inclusion of more deputized agents into the fold is part of the DOTr’s strategy to enforce traffic laws effectively.
These newly appointed agents now hold the authority to issue electronic temporary operator’s permits (e-TOP) to violators. The traffic agency has fully implemented the introduction of e-TOP since January of this year, thus further streamlining the enforcement process.
Strengthening the Ranks for Rule Implementation
The freshly inducted agents will work in conjunction with the existing 81 personnel who have been serving as traffic officers in the region. Their primary responsibility is to enforce Republic Act 4136, commonly known as the Land Transportation and Traffic Code.
Galario stated that these agents, sourced from LTO-7’s district and extension offices, underwent specialized deputization training. They are now equipped with handheld mobile devices for electronic Temporary Operator’s Permit issuance.
Rigorous Training and Immersion
Before officially commencing their duties, the newly appointed agents underwent rigorous training in Cebu on August 25 and 26. The training encompassed an immersion experience, enabling them to familiarize themselves with their respective areas of responsibility.
Glen Galario expressed confidence in the ability of these agents to further elevate the implementation of traffic laws through their expertise and dedication.
Bolstering Deputized Personnel: A Collective Effort
The LTO-7 records reveal that the region now boasts a total of 141 deputized personnel. Among them, 64 individuals hail from the Philippine National Police and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board, with the remainder being part of the LTO itself. This collaborative effort aims to amplify the reach and efficacy of road safety initiatives in the region.
Striving for Safer Roads: The Philippine Road Safety Action Plan
In May 2023, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) joined forces with the World Health Organization (WHO) and road safety partners to introduce the Philippine Road Safety Action Plan 2023-2028.
The overarching objective of this plan is to reduce road traffic fatalities in the country by 35 percent by 2028. The plan encompasses five critical pillars: road safety management, safer roads, safer vehicles, safer road users, and post-crash response.
Addressing a Pressing Concern
Highlighting the urgency of the situation, data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) spanning a decade (2011-2021) underscores road traffic injuries as the leading cause of death among Filipinos aged 15-29.
The gravity of the issue is particularly concerning among children, with road traffic injuries cited as a significant contributor to mortality. The collaborative efforts between various stakeholders, including the LTO and DOTr, seek to address these pressing concerns and create a safer road environment for all.
Sources: THX News & Philippine News Agency.
