LTO Region 6: Taking the Lead in Road Safety
In Western Visayas, where road crashes claim 500 lives annually, the Land Transportation Office Region 6 (LTO-6) is stepping up its efforts to make the roads safer.
These figures are part of a nationwide problem that sees over 12,000 fatalities each year, underscoring the urgent need for stronger enforcement of traffic laws. LTO-6 is answering the call with a decisive move: equipping its Regional Law Enforcement Unit with 10 calibrated breath analyzers and a speed gun to crack down on reckless driving and enforce speed limits.
“These tools are more than just devices—they are lifesavers,” said LTO-6 Regional Director Atty. Gaudioso Geduspan. “By empowering our enforcers with the right equipment, we are taking proactive steps to prevent accidents caused by drunk driving and speeding.”
The breath analyzers will enable LTO-6 enforcers to effectively identify drivers operating under the influence of alcohol, a leading cause of road crashes.
At the same time, the speed gun will monitor compliance with speed limits on national highways, helping to mitigate the risk of high-speed collisions. This initiative aligns with the directive of LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Atty. Vigor Mendoza II and Department of Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon to intensify road safety campaigns across the country.
A Closer Look at the Anti-Drunk Driving Effort
Under the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013 (Republic Act 10586), suspected intoxicated drivers are subject to Field Sobriety Tests, including the walk-and-turn test, one-leg stand test, and horizontal gaze nystagmus test.
Drivers who fail these assessments are then subjected to a breathalyzer test to determine their Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC). Those exceeding the legal limit face serious consequences, including fines, immediate arrest, and possible permanent revocation of their licenses for repeat offenses or involvement in accidents.
“Drunk driving is a preventable cause of road crashes,” explained Assistant Regional Director Jeck Conlu. “With the breath analyzers, we can address this issue head-on, especially during high-traffic periods like Iloilo City’s annual festivals.”
A Call to Responsibility
As LTO-6 ramps up its enforcement measures, the agency is sending a clear message: compliance with traffic regulations is non-negotiable. Director Geduspan emphasized the shared responsibility of motorists in achieving safer roads. “We urge all drivers to respect speed limits, avoid driving under the influence, and always prioritize safety,” he said.
With these new tools and a steadfast commitment to public safety, LTO-6 is setting the standard for road safety enforcement in the region.
The agency’s efforts remind everyone that small, responsible actions—like driving sober and observing speed limits—can save countless lives. “Together,” Director Geduspan added, “we can make a difference.”
