Baguio: The Baguio City Police Office (BCPO) has emphasized the critical need for vehicle safety checks to prevent road accidents in the city, which has recorded 109 vehicular accidents from January 1 to February 5.
According to Philippines News Agency, Col. Ruel Tagel, the city police director, highlighted the importance of conducting pre-travel checks using the BLOW BAGETS method-Brakes, Light, Oil, Water, Battery, Air, Gas, Engine, Tires, Self. He stressed that both the vehicle and the driver's conditions are crucial, especially given Baguio's challenging topography with its sloping, ascending, and curved roads.
In a separate statement, Maj. Marcy Grace Maron, BCPO information officer, advised motorists to regularly inspect their vehicles and comply with traffic rules. She also recommended staying informed through traffic advisories posted on social media and urged drivers to operate vehicles safely and responsibly.
Lawyer Joshua Pablito, the Department of Transportation (DOTr)-Cordillera director, reiterated the significance of the Land Transportation Office's (LTO) requirement for new driver's license applicants to complete a Theoretical Driving Course (TDC) and a Practical Driving Course (PDC). This mandatory education also applies to those renewing their permits, particularly if they have multiple road rule violations.
On Wednesday morning, a collision between a taxi and a public utility jeepney in Barangay Bakakeng resulted in injuries to at least 22 people, underscoring the urgent need for adherence to safety measures.