As traffic injuries rise in EV
TACLOBAN CITY — Eastern Samar Rep. Christopher Sheen Gonzales is pushing for stronger road safety education across Eastern Visayas, warning that rising traffic-related injuries underscore the need to match infrastructure development with responsible driving behavior.
Based on the record of the Highway Patrol Group, there were 4,525 road accidents across the region last year while the Department of Health (DOH) regional office has also reported that a total of 939 road traffic injuries and two fatalities were recorded in the region from January to February 2026 alone.
Gonzales made the call during the inauguration of a new district office of the Land Transportation Office (LTO) in Dolores, Eastern Samar, on April 7, where he emphasized that improving access to government services must go hand in hand with strengthening public awareness on road safety.
“Development cannot be fully achieved if people remain uneducated about road safety,” Gonzales said, stressing that motorists must be equipped with proper knowledge of traffic laws and safe driving practices.
The newly opened LTO office is expected to ease the burden on residents who previously had to travel to Borongan City to process licenses and vehicle registrations.
However, the lawmaker said that while such infrastructure improvements are essential, they are not enough to ensure safer roads.
He also addressed concerns over stricter enforcement measures against unlicensed drivers and unregistered vehicles, assuring the public that those who comply with the law have nothing to fear.
“Drivers should not be alarmed. If your papers are complete, there is no reason to worry,” he said, adding that enforcement is aimed at promoting order and preventing accidents.
Gonzales underscored that a valid driver’s license signifies that a motorist has undergone proper training and understands traffic rules. He warned that even insured drivers could face complications in claiming benefits if they are found operating vehicles without valid licenses.
As the region continues to see improvements in road infrastructure and mobility, Gonzales urged motorists to take a more active role in ensuring safety.
“Development must go hand in hand with education. We cannot allow progress in infrastructure while neglecting people’s knowledge and responsibility,” he said.
He called on drivers across Eastern Samar and the rest of Eastern Visayas to remain disciplined and informed, stressing that shared responsibility is key to reducing road accidents and saving lives.
JOEY A. GABIETA
