Map of Western Visayas
Western Visayas recorded 12,560 vehicular accidents in the region from January to December 15 this year, with Iloilo having the most number of vehicular accidents with 5,911 alarming the Police Regional Office in Western Visayas (PRO 6).
“The cases of vehicular accidents are alarming. From January to December 15 this year, we have 12,560 cases all over the region,”Lt. Col. Joem Malong, PRO 6 spokesperson said.
Majority of the recorded cases fall under reckless imprudence resulting in damage to property with 7,627; reckless imprudence resulting in physical injury with 4,090 cases; and reckless imprudence resulting in homicide with 443.
“The problem with the reckless imprudence resulting to damage to property is these cases are unintentional. We cannot stop these unless we educate our drivers and pedestrians to follow [the] traffic rules and regulations,” she explained.
In partnership with the Highway Patrol Group and the Land Transportation Office, the PRO 6 held various seminars for police officers to be deputized and impose traffic laws and regulations.
“We already have deputation. We ensure every municipality has theirs so that we can impose the traffic laws,” she added.
Malong also reminded the public to be extra careful since “police presence cannot guarantee that there will be no accidents because accidents are uncalled for.”
“ What we can do is to practice safe driving, especially during rush hours. We still have to take personal measures to ensure that we are safe,” she added. (RJ Espartinez)