PNP boosts road safety measures for Holy Week, summer travels

By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan, Philippine News Agency

POLICE VISIBILITY. Police officers maintain visibility outside a commercial establishment along Tomas Morato Avenue in Quezon City in this June 9, 2025 photo. The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Thursday (March 26, 2026) said police units nationwide have been ordered to enforce tightened road safety measures to prevent accidents during this year’s Holy Week and summer travel season. (PNA photo by Robert Oswald P. Alfiler)

MANILA – The Philippine National Police (PNP) has ordered its units nationwide to enforce tightened road safety measures to prevent accidents during the Holy Week and summer travel season.

In an interview with reporters on Thursday, PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño said a sufficient number of police officers will be deployed to assist in the strict enforcement of road safety rules and regulations, including inspections of public utility vehicles in transportation hubs.

“The coordination with local government units and other agencies is of big help in preventive measures,” he said.

According to PNP data, 30,516 road accidents were recorded from April 1 to May 31, 2025, down from 31,992 in the same period in 2024. However, fatalities rose from 884 during the same period in 2024 to 919 last year.

Most deaths occurred in Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Ilocos Region, and Northern Mindanao.

To prevent accidents, Tuaño urged motorists to ensure their vehicles are in good condition, observe road safety precautions, and plan their trips.

Meanwhile, the PNP official also reminded the public to enjoy water activities responsibly, citing an increase in drowning incidents.

From April 1 to May 31, 2025, a total of 151 drowning incidents were reported across the country, notably higher than the 90 recorded during the same period in 2024.

Most of the incidents occurred in the coastal areas of Ilocos Region and Calabarzon, according to the PNP.

Tuaño said their Maritime Group and territorial police forces are in charge of coordinating with beach and resort owners to ensure that appropriate measures are in place, especially during peak season.

“We are asking our kababayan to observe safety measures while enjoying the summer vacation,” he said