29/10/2026
CHECK BEFORE YOU GO: PNP SAFETY REMINDER FOR UNDAS TRAVELERS
With millions of Filipinos expected to travel for Undas, Chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP) Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. is urging motorists and passengers to make safety checks part of every trip, stressing that many road mishaps can be prevented when drivers, vehicle owners, and passengers take simple precautions before leaving home.
The reminder comes after a passenger jeepney overturned in Infanta, Quezon on October 24, injuring the driver and 15 passengers. Police reported that the vehicle was traveling downhill when the driver reportedly lost control after an apparent brake problem. The incident highlights the importance of checking a vehicle’s basic safety condition before taking to the road, particularly during the anticipated increase in Undas travel.
“Bago tayo bumiyahe, siguraduhin muna natin na kaya ng sasakyan ang biyahe. Check the brakes, tires, lights, and other basic safety features. Kung may napansing problema, huwag nang ipilit. Mas mabuti nang maantala ang biyahe kaysa malagay sa alanganin ang buhay ng mga sakay,” PGen Nartatez said.
He also called on drivers to recognize their own limitations, particularly during long-distance trips, and to avoid speeding, distracted driving and driving while fatigued. Passengers, meanwhile, are encouraged to use available safety restraints and to speak up when they see an unsafe driving practice.
“Undas is about going home, visiting our loved ones and spending time with family. Ang gusto natin, makarating kayo nang ligtas at makauwi rin nang ligtas. So take that extra minute to check the vehicle, plan the route, and rest when needed. Simple steps, but they can save lives,” the Chief PNP added.
The PNP is also reminding travelers to exercise greater caution as roads, terminals and transport hubs become busier during the holiday period. Motorists are advised to slow down on downhill roads, curves and congested areas, maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, and follow traffic rules and the directions of traffic personnel.
Police units nationwide are likewise supporting public safety efforts during the Undas period through strengthened coordination, visibility and assistance in major transport routes, terminals, cemeteries and other areas expected to receive large numbers of travelers. These measures are part of the PNP's Enhanced Managing Police Operations (EMPO) under the PNP Focused Agenda, with emphasis on preventing incidents and ensuring that police services remain responsive to the needs of the public.
As the country observes Undas, the PNP joins President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in encouraging the public to make safety a shared responsibility. With every traveler taking the necessary precautions before and during the journey, the PNP remains committed to ensuring that the spirit of remembrance and family reunion is not overshadowed by preventable incidents, in keeping with the Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman.
(PNP-PIO)
