SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union (PIA) – As Filipinos gear up for the holiday season and embark on road trips to various destinations, the Department of Health-Ilocos Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD 1) is urging motorists to prioritize road safety.
Through its “Biyahealthy Campaign,” the agency aims to raise awareness about the importance of safe driving practices.
Raymark Perreras, health education and promotions officer of DOH-CHD 1, said it is important to practice preventive and risk-mitigating behaviors to avoid road crash accidents that may result in injuries and death.
Motorists are advised to always check the roadworthiness of their vehicles before the trip.
“Remember the B.L.O.W.B.A.G.E.T.S. and check your car’s battery, lights, oil, water, brake, air, gas, engine, and tire,” Perreras said over a recent episode of PIA’s Kapihan sa Ilocos.
He added, “It is also vital to check on yourselves if you are in good health and condition to drive and safely travel to and from your destinations.”
Enough sleep and good rest are vital to ensure fitness to drive.
Perreras also strongly urged motorists to refrain from drinking alcoholic beverages and taking medications that can cause drowsiness if planning to take a road trip.
Wearing helmets, seatbelts, and other protective gear must always be a practice for drivers and passengers as a precautionary measure.
Moreover, DOH emphasized avoiding distractions at all costs when on the road and never using mobile devices while driving, as this is also prohibited by law per Republic Act 10913, or the Anti-Distracted Driving Act of the Philippines.
Motorists must follow road signs, signals, and traffic rules and regulations at all times. (AMB/CGCC, PIA Region 1)
