PNP reminds motorists of road rules for safe Holy Week travel

The Philippine National Police on Tuesday reminded motorists heading to the provinces for the Holy Week to follow road regulations to ensure their safety.

At a press briefing, PNP spokesman Chief Supt. Generoso Cerbo Jr. reminded the public to always use seatbelts when aboard a vehicle, as mandated by the Republic Act 8750.

RA 8750 requires the "mandatory compliance by motorists by private and public vehicles to use seatbelt devices and requiring vehicle manufacturers to install seatbelt devices in all manufactured vehicles."

"Bilang paalala sa mga kababayan natin, it will save lives 'yung pago-observe po ng ating mga batas, for the use of seatbelts," he said.

Also, Cerbo cited RA 10054 or the Motorcycle Helmet Act, which requires  motorcycle riders to wear standard protective motorcycle helmets while driving.

He also reminded the public of the RA 10586 or the Anti-Drug and Drunk Driving Act, which penalizes "driving under the influence of alcohol and dangerous drugs, and similar substance."

"We will provide penalties sa mga mahuhuling magva-violate," Cerbo warned.
Earlier, the PNP Police Community Relations Group particularly reminded motorists of the BLOWBAG checklist before they head out.

BLOWBAG

"Better safe than sorry is a worn-out adage. But no matter how worn-out it may sound, it has remained true all these years. Have a safe journey!" it said.

The BLOWBAG checklist includes:

Battery: Battery replacement should be undertaken every two years

Light: Headlights, brake lights, signal light and emergency light should be in good condition

Oil: Change oil at least one week before hitting the road. Take an extra bottle of oil for emergencies

Water: Monitor water level in the radiator and inspect the radiator for leaks. Keep a liter of water in your vehicle for emergency needs

Brakes: Have an expert examine your brakes, brake pad and fluid level. Keep an extra bottle of brake fluid in the vehicle trunk

Air: Use a tire air pressure gauge or have a mechanic test the tires. Have a spare tire and have it examined too. Also look for signs of holes or bulges on the tires

Gas: Have the vehicle's fuel gauge checked. And don't wait for the next gas station to fill the tank – gas it all up once, in full, before hitting the road.

"In addition to safety tips, sana i-observe po natin itong mga kaukulang batas para maging ligtas ang ating pagbibiyahe," Cerbo said.

Filipinos are expected to flock to the provinces starting this week, so they can spend Holy Week with their loved ones. —NB, GMA News