SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union (PIA) – The Land Transportation Office (LTO)-Region 1 partnered with the Sangguniang Panlalawigan Office, the Provincial Government of La Union, and the Civil Service Commission-Regional Office I in conducting a free two-day theoretical driving course (TDC) for women held on March 25-26 at the J&V Resort and Hotel here.
This initiative aimed to equip aspiring women drivers with the knowledge and skills for safe and responsible driving.
The comprehensive training covered essential topics like traffic laws, road safety, vehicle operation, defensive driving, and even gender and development.
The program specifically targeted women from diverse backgrounds, including solo parents, unemployed individuals, and government employees.
This focus on inclusivity reflects the project's goal of empowering women and fostering their participation in the workforce and community development.
LTO Region 1 Regional Director Glorioso Daniel Martinez highlighted the alarming number of road accidents in the Philippines, emphasizing the importance of education in addressing human error, the leading cause.
"There are 33 deaths a day due to road accidents nationwide," Director Martinez said.
"Ignorance of traffic laws is a major factor. We, at LTO, are committed to educating the public and promoting safe driving practices," he added.
The TDC culminated in an examination to assess participants' understanding of the covered topics.
Those who passed received a certificate, a crucial step towards obtaining a student driver's permit and eventually, a driver's license.
Leilanie Esmeralda, a midwife from Sto. Tomas, La Union, was among the grateful participants.
"This program is a great opportunity. It empowers women to drive and be independent. We can handle any vehicle, just like men,” she said.
The LTO-Region 1's initiative serves as a model for promoting women's empowerment and road safety.
By equipping women with the knowledge and skills to navigate the roads confidently, this program contributes to a safer and more inclusive transportation landscape for all. (JCR/AMB/PIA Region 1)
