‘I hope LTO has plans on road accidents this coming Christmas… Adda paylang ag ka-karera dita provincial road,’ – VG Odiem

Tabuk City, Kalinga – As preparations for the Christmas season begin, Acting Governor and Vice Governor Dave Odiem reminded motorcycle riders, the Land Transportation Office (LTO), and concerned agencies to take precautionary measures against road and traffic accidents, especially with the expected increase in movement and activity in the province during the holidays.

Odiem made the statement during the flag-raising ceremony on November 24, 2025, at the Capitol Gym in Bulanao. He raised several concerns, including the reckless behavior of young motorcycle riders, the aftermath of Typhoon Uwan, and the province’s Christmas preparations.

Odiem expressed his hope that the LTO and other concerned agencies have already drafted initial plans to address these issues, saying, “... tatta nga Christmas, maysa nga problema ket dagitoy motorcycle riders, who are very young and unbecoming while on the road. I hope the LTO and other agencies in charge of our road safety have plans regarding road traffic accidents, especially this coming Christmas season.”

He added that a major concern involves riders without proper licenses who travel late at night and sometimes race along provincial roads. This prompted his call for the PNP to intensify efforts to prevent such incidents.

“Ti maysa problema tayo dagijay motor nga adda baw-baw na. Adda paylang met. Rabii adda da. Adda paylang ag ka-karera dita provincial road. Pangaasi yo kuma ta i-remind tayo dagituy PNP ta tumulong da tapnu ma-avoid-an manen dagituy disgrasya,” he said.

Odiem also mentioned concerns about the use of fireworks and the accidents they may cause. He urged the PNP and barangay officials to prepare measures that will minimize fireworks-related injuries.

“So, since paumay ti Christmas season and later on New Year, sigurado manen ado ti paputok. So I enjoin again the PNP and the barangay officials to make plans on how to minimize dagituy paputok to avoid dagiti aksidente,” he added.

With 2026 approaching, the provincial government continues to fast-track recovery efforts, particularly in communities affected by Typhoon Uwan. Odiem called on all agencies and barangay leaders to strengthen their initiatives as the province prepares to enter the new year with renewed confidence.