SMOOTH TRIP. Ilocos Norte Highway is free of any obstruction. (Photo by Leilanie Adriano)
LAOAG CITY -- Motorist assistance stations are now in place along the national highway in Ilocos Norte province to ensure that travelers get reliable help and enjoy a smooth trip.
A team to man these stations round-the-clock until the holiday rush is over has already been deployed, District Engineer Mathias Malenab of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) - Ilocos Norte’s 2nd Engineering District said in an interview Wednesday.
The DPWH has revived the program “Lakbay Alalay” to assist drivers while on the road, Malenab said.
The motorist assistance station team is composed of an automotive mechanic who could troubleshoot in case of a vehicle breakdown; emergency responders who are collaborating with the search and rescue team of the Philippine National Police (PNP); and village officials who are ready to provide ambulances in case of a vehicular accident.
Malenab said they have also organized a team that would monitor the installation of proper traffic signages and warning signs for all construction projects here.
The DPWH Central Office has instructed district engineers to provide legible informational and directional signs on visible locations along national roads.
Pavement markings must be reflectorized to guide night driving motorists with kilometer posts bearing legible details and information.
A few weeks before the start of the Holy Week, personnel of the local DPWH and members of the PNP removed obstructions along the road-right-of-way on national roads and bridges that might impede or delay the flow of traffic. (PNA)
