The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) on Thursday said it would be reactivating its Lakbay Alalay program to assist motorists traveling before, during, and after the All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day break.
In a statement, the DPWH said Public Works Secretary Mark Villar has already ordered the establishment of motorist assistance centers at various strategic locations along major thoroughfares such as national roads and bridges.
“We are hoping that through our Lakbay-Alalay teams, we can help everyone get the chance to visit memorial cemeteries, columbaria including churches and commemorate memories of their dearly departed safe and free from any inconvenience,” Villar said.
Each assistance center will have an anchorperson from the regional, district or city offices, as well as mechanics with equipment and service vehicles on standby.
DPWH Lakbay Alalay centers will be open to assist motorists round-the-clock, starting at 7 a.m. of October 31 (Wednesday) to 12 noon of November 4 (Monday).
According to the DPWH, they are also coordinating with the Land Transportation Office, Philippine National Police, local government units, and other agencies for its Lakbay Alalay operations.
Meanwhile, in terms of ongoing road projects, DPWH project engineers have been directed to coordinate with contractors and other concerned offices regarding the schedule of works and the installation of traffic advisories.
The department added that its maintenance teams are working to ensure that national highways, especially those adjacent or leading to cemeteries, are safe and equipped with proper lighting and adequate road signs. Clearing operations in streets blocked by illegally-parked vehicles, vendors, and roads with potholes are also underway. /muf