PNP chief commends men for easing severe traffic in Bicol highway
PHILIPPINE National Police chief Gen. Rommel Francisco D. Marbil yesterday commended the dedication and resourcefulness of his men in mitigating the severe traffic congestion along the Rolando Andaya Highway in Camarines Sur which caught the ire of the motoring public before Christmas Day.
“Our police officers’ commitment and hard work have brought significant relief to a situation that once saw traffic stretch over 17 kilometers. Without their efforts, the problem would have persisted,” the top cop said.
In response to the worsening traffic caused by ongoing road repairs and adverse weather, the PNP deployed additional personnel from the Highway Patrol Group (HPG) to manage traffic flow round-the-clock.
The PNP-HPG under Brig. Gen. William M. Segun implemented measures such as the 30-minute interval scheme, allowing vehicles from opposing directions to pass alternately to considerably reduced congestion.
Furthermore, the Police Regional Office 5 under Brig. Gen. Andre P. Dizon were instrumental in securing Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) equipment essential for road rehabilitation efforts. Their presence ensured the safe and timely delivery of materials, facilitating the swift progress of repair works aimed at restoring normal traffic conditions in the busy highway.
Marbil also acknowledged the innovative approaches introduced by the police force to alleviate traffic, including the implementation of diversion routes for light vehicles.
Motorists were directed to take alternative paths such as the Sipocot-Camarines Norte route or the Sta. Elena-Capalonga, Daet, Camarines Norte route to bypass heavily congested areas.
“Our officers have demonstrated exceptional resourcefulness and dedication in addressing this challenge. Their 24-hour presence and efforts have made travel safer and more efficient for the public,” he said.
According to Marbil, the PNP continues to work closely with the DPWH, Land Transportation Office (LTO) and local government units to monitor and address traffic conditions.
Motorists are encouraged to stay patient, follow traffic advisories, and use designated alternate routes to ease travel during this period.
