Anticipating the influx of travelers during the Holy Week, the Department of Public Works and Highways XIII (DPWH-XIII) has reactivated its Lakbay Alalay Program to assure that travel along the National Highway is safe and convenient.
DPWH-XIII Regional Director Danilo E. Versola directed all nine District Engineering Offices in this region to prioritize safety and convenience of motorists, pedestrians and foreign tourists by implementing the measures and guidelines in the said program as per memorandum ordered by DPWH Secretary Rogelio L. Singson.
“I am stringent in observing proper installation of signage and warning signs within clear and safe distance of all on-going projects and provision of legible informational and directional signs installed in conspicuous locations along the road”, he said noting these road features are most necessary.
Other measures in assuring the preparedness of the national highway include freeing the carriageway from potholes, providing reflectorized pavement markings, and ensure inscription of legible details and information on Kilometer posts to guide motorists – which the director remarked to have already accomplished since two weeks ago as roadside and carriageway maintenance activities is top priority of the office to prepare for the upcoming Holy Week.
“As for the moment there is no reported road closure along our National Highway”, he added.
Motorist Assistance
Starting this March 21, the DPWH-RXIII will establish 18 Motorist Assistance Centers that will be positioned in conspicuous locations around the region to provide prompt and reliable assistance to traveling public, especially during emergency along the national highway.
“When travelers, especially foreign tourists would like to inquire for directions or if there is emergency, all they have to do is go to the nearest Motorist Assistance Center and immediate assistance will arrive”, said Director Versola.
These on-field personnel are assigned round-the-clock shift and can be easily recognized as they wear DPWH Uniform (orange T-shirt), he added. They will be on-duty until March 28.
Stations of the “Lakbay-Alalay” team of DPWH-XIII will be located along the National Highway in towns of Prosperidad, San Francisco, Trento, Lipata, Cagdianao, Albor, Tubajon, Gamut, Cantilan, Dapa, Lianga, Barobo, Cuevas, Buenavista, and also in Cabadbaran City and Butuan City.
For assistance the travelers may contact 0908-865-2639 and look for the Lakbay Alalay Team Leader Engr. Jerome S. Mezo.
Public Satisfaction
On the other hand, DPWH wanted to assure that the traveling public is served and fully satisfied on its service.
“We also want to hear your sentiments, comments and even complaints regarding the Lakbay Alalay Program of our department, thus we urge you to take part in our survey that will evaluate our performance of duty”, said the director.
It was a directive from the Central Office that a customer satisfaction survey will be conducted.