WITH Christmas parties and other forms of revelry in homes and offices, Land Transportation Office (LTO) Chief Assistant Secretary Atty. Vigor Mendoza II appealed to motorists not to drink during parties with friends and co-workers so that they can drive home safely back to their respective families.
Aside from possibly being charged for violating Republic Act No. 10586 or the “Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013,” Mendoza said what is even more scary is if they figure in a road accident that puts their lives and that of other road users at risk.
“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,” said Mendoza.
“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 Bautista to ensure the safety of all road users especially that the number or 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 RA 10586.
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,” said Mendoza.
“Huwag nating ipalit ang kaunting oras ng kaligayahan sa habang buhay na pagsisisi. Maging responsable tayong motorista para wala tayong problema,” he added.