MANILA — The Philippine National Police (PNP) reminded motorists and travelers to strictly follow road regulations to ensure public safety during the New Year travel rush.

PNP acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez, Jr., said strict adherence to traffic rules is essential to prevent accidents, noting an increase in road crashes in recent days.

“We are coordinating with concerned government agencies for road safety intervention as we monitor an increase in road crashes in the past few days,” Nartatez said.

He also urged drivers to check their vehicles and follow traffic rules. “Sama-sama nating salubungin ang Bagong Taon na maayos ang kalagayan kasama ang ating pamilya (Let’s welcome the New Year together in good health with our families),” he added.

The reminder follows a Dec. 29 bus crash along the Marilaque Highway in Infanta, Quezon, which killed one person and injured 28 others. Earlier, at least five people died in a separate road crash in Camarines Sur involving a passenger bus.

Government interventions include roadworthiness inspections of buses at terminals and assessments of bus drivers’ mental and physical readiness.

Nartatez warned that drunk driving, overspeeding, and other traffic violations compromising public safety will not be tolerated and will be penalized according to law. Police forces nationwide continue to intensify monitoring and enforcement operations. (PNA)