Negros oriental: Two Lakbay Alalay stations in Negros Oriental are now operational, ready to assist motorists and respond to road crashes and other emergencies during Holy Week.

According to Philippines News Agency, the Lakbay Alalay assistance areas are in line with the observance of Semana Santa (Holy Week) and the anticipated influx of travelers during the summer vacation period. Provincial Highway Patrol Team (PHPT) Chief Police Executive Master Sergeant Aurelio Bodo stated in an interview that the stations have been established in collaboration with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

The assistance stations are strategically located along the Km 12 national highway in Barangay Sto. Ni±o, San Jose town, catering to northbound travelers, and at Km 6 national highway in Barangay Banilad, Bacong town, for those heading south. The PHPT will be deployed from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily until Saturday, while DPWH personnel of the 2nd Engineering District will be available at the assistance areas around the clock.

Bodo emphasized that despite the set hours, the Highway Patrol Team remains accessible at any time in case of an emergency. The Lakbay Alalay stations are designed to serve as roadside assistance centers, offering services such as prompt police aid and visibility patrol, traffic management and regulation, road safety advisories, and dissemination of public information.

Furthermore, the initiative will support drivers facing vehicle failures and those requiring emergency response management and first aid assistance. The overall goal is to reduce road accidents, deter highway crimes, and maintain smooth traffic movement on essential routes. This is particularly crucial during busy travel times when the volume of vehicles is expected to rise considerably.