LTO conducts roadworthiness test

CEBU, Philippines - The Land Transportation Office (LTO) 7 conducted a random roadside roadworthiness test of public utility vehicles near school vicinities as classes begin yesterday.

LTO 7 Regional Director Raul Aguilos said they also assisted in the traffic management and closely monitored situation in public schools for the safety of the school children.

 â€œThis is to make sure school children are safe while using the streets,” said Aguilos.

Department of Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas has directed all local officials in a memorandum to support the Oplan Balik Eskwela 2013.

In the memorandum, it was stated that local officials shall ensure street lightings in areas where schools hold night classes and ensure that all schools, especially public schools, have clean toilets and with adequate supply of clean water.

Roxas said that streets near schools shall have pedestrian lanes and local officials shall implement proactive measures to prevent tricycle drivers from overloading.

Roxas also directed local officials to ensure that food and beverages sold within the vicinity of schools, especially by ambulant vendors, are safe to eat and drink.

“Increase patrol operations of barangay tanods in the vicinity of schools on the day of opening of classes and maintain these patrol operations on every school day throughout the year,” the memorandum stated.

Local government  units are, likewise, encouraged to set aside funds and assist in the preparation and distribution of dengue mosquito ovicidal and larvicidal traps in schools.  (FREEMAN)