DPWH reactivates ‘Lakbay Alalay’

Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Mark A. Villar recently issued a memorandum directing all DPWH regional and district offices to reactivate the “Lakbay Alalay” in observance of All Saints’ and Souls’ Days from October 31 at 7 a.m. until November 4 at 12 p.m.

Villar instructed the regional directors and district engineers to activate a composite team and install motorist assistance centers in strategic locations within their jurisdiction to assist the motorists and the traveling public during the whole duration of the program.

In compliance with the said memorandum, DPWH in Region VI is getting ready for the expected volume of traffic along major roads in various areas in the region.

Regional Director Lea N. Delfinado said motorist assistance centers will be installed along national roads near cemeteries, terminals and ports to ensure the smooth flow of traffic and provide necessary assistance to the motorists and the general public.

“We will be coordinating with other agencies like the Philippine National Police (PNP), Land Transportation Office (LTO), Department of Health (DOH) and Disaster Emergency Responders for the smooth conduct of the operation,” Delfinado said.

Delfinado also instructed District Engineers to ensure that national roads are free from obstructions, while in areas where road constructions or repairs are undertaken, necessary warning devices should be installed and personnel should be deployed to man the traffic.

In addition, Assistant Regional Director Jose Al V. Fruto said that maintenance crew will be deployed to monitor road condition, particularly those that are landslide prone and slip prone areas, so immediate repair and palliative measures be done when needed.

“We will be undertaking regular monitoring to ensure that major road sections are passable and well-maintained, with necessary directional and warning signs for the smooth flow of traffic,” Fruto said.

Meantime, Maintenance Division chief, Engr. Oliver E. Zamora said that the motorist assistance centers will provide immediate assistance such as repairing and troubleshooting of troubled vehicles, giving of directions especially to tourists, and applying first aid in emergency cases. (DPWH-6/RPAIO)