As the Christmas and New Year holidays draw near, authorities in Pangasinan are intensifying road safety efforts to prepare for an expected surge in travelers heading home to the provinces.

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has begun heightened monitoring and increased personnel presence on major roads across Pangasinan to help ensure the safety of motorists and passengers.

The move comes as officials anticipate heavy traffic in the coming weeks, especially from holiday travelers.

“Ang practice talaga natin ay to make sure ‘yung safety ng ating mga road users,” Cathrayn Alanon, chief of the LTO–Alaminos City District, said.

In addition to road monitoring, the LTO will set up Motorist Assistance Desks in strategic areas throughout Pangasinan. These stations aim to assist drivers facing vehicle trouble during long trips.

Authorities are also watching public transport vehicles closely, particularly in large bus terminals, to prevent safety violations and possible overcharging of passengers.

Some drivers welcomed the heightened enforcement.

“Mas mabuti po ‘yun na may nakabantay po sa amin,” Melvin Abarra, a tricycle driver, said.

Police officers have also been deployed in bus terminals across the province as part of the coordinated effort. Pangasinan Police Provincial Office spokesperson PCapt. Aileen Catugas said the deployment aims to maintain order and safety.

“Talagang para matiyak natin ang ligtas sa kalsada,” she said.

The LTO, Pangasinan PPO, and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) continue to coordinate closely as they conduct scheduled inspections in terminals and key routes, to ensure safer and smoother travel during the peak holiday season.