Quezon City: The Philippine National Police (PNP) announced plans to deploy more officers along the Marilaque (Marikina-Rizal-Laguna-Quezon) Highway in response to the increasing number of fatal accidents in the area, which is a popular spot for riders.

According to Philippines News Agency, PNP Highway Patrol Group (HPG) spokesperson Lt. Dhame Malang stated during a press briefing in Camp Crame, Quezon City, that police presence would be significantly increased during the daytime and on weekends when rider activity is at its peak. The decision follows concerns raised during a Senate hearing on the Magna Carta of Commuters and Philippine Transportation Security bills, where National Public Transport Coalition president Ariel Lim highlighted the numerous deaths reported on the highway, especially in the Tanay, Rizal section.

Lt. Malang disclosed that 17 members of the Highway Patrol Team from Rizal would receive additional support from teams in Laguna and Quezon. "We are adding personnel, especially in parts where a bulk of riders are seen, especially in Palo Alto, Devil's Curve and other portions where most riders gather," he explained in Filipino. The HPG is also collaborating with local government units and police to enhance security along the 115-kilometer highway.

A notable incident occurred on January 26 in Barangay Cuyambay, Tanay, marking the 13th mishap of the year. In this incident, one of two riders involved in a race died, and several spectators were injured. The Motorcycle Rights Organization has been raising the alarm about reckless racing on the highway since 2017. In 2024, the PNP-HPG recorded 158 accidents on this stretch of road.