Kalinga logs 39% spike in traffic accidents, with Tabuk recording most road crashes

Tabuk City, Kalinga – Vehicular traffic incidents in Kalinga increased by 39 percent during the first five months of 2026, according to data presented by the Kalinga Provincial Police Office (KPPO).

During the Kapehan sa Kapitolyo of the Provincial Government of Kalinga on June 22, Police Major George Acob reported that a total of 39 vehicular traffic incidents were recorded across the province from January to May 2026.

The figure represents a 39-percent increase from the 28 incidents documented during the same period in 2025, highlighting growing concerns over road safety in the province.

Data presented by the KPPO showed that Tabuk City continued to record the highest number of road crashes, with incidents increasing from 25 in 2025 to 29 in 2026.

Several municipalities that previously recorded no vehicular incidents also posted cases this year. Balbalan logged one incident, Lubuagan recorded two, and Pasil registered three cases.

Meanwhile, Rizal and Tinglayan remained free of vehicular traffic incidents during the reporting period, while Tanudan improved from one recorded incident last year to zero this year.

According to the KPPO, human error remains the leading cause of road crashes, followed by mechanical defects, road conditions, and reckless driving.

Acob said the figures underscore the need for stronger road safety awareness among motorists and stricter compliance with traffic regulations.

To address the increasing number of incidents, the provincial police office, headed by Provincial Director PCOL Gilbert Fati-ig, continues to conduct checkpoint operations, road safety information campaigns, and coordination activities with local government units and concerned agencies.

Authorities likewise urged motorists to obey traffic laws, avoid reckless driving, and practice responsible road behavior to help prevent accidents and save lives.

The rise in road crashes comes amid several serious traffic incidents reported in Kalinga in recent months. Among them was a tragic motorcycle accident involving minors that was reported by Guru Press Cordillera on June 9, 2026.

The incident claimed the life of a 13-year-old boy and left another minor injured after the motorcycle they were riding figured in a crash. The case renewed calls from authorities and community leaders for stricter supervision of underage drivers and stronger enforcement of road safety regulations.

Police continue to remind parents and vehicle owners not to allow minors to operate motor vehicles and to ensure that all drivers possess the necessary licenses and safety equipment before using public roads.