In a bid to enhance road safety, the Land Transportation Office (LTO), under the leadership of Assistant Secretary Vigor Mendoza II, has reinforced its commitment to curtail the issue of overloaded trucks and trailers. Mendoza, in a press release issued on Monday, underscored the inherent risks linked to overloading, which often culminates in severe and sometimes fatal road accidents.
Apart from causing multiple vehicle damage and leading to a significant number of fatalities, overloaded trucks have also been identified as a primary factor contributing to the deterioration of roads and bridges. Drawing from a string of reports received, Mendoza noted that such instances consequently impose an additional financial burden on the national government due to repair costs.
A Look at the Past: Violations and Penalties
For the past several years, vehicle overloading has emerged as a leading violation, attracting considerable penalties. In 2023 alone, the LTO levied penalties amounting to approximately PHP42.7 million as a result of overloaded motor vehicles, predominantly trucks and trailers.
Encouragingly, stringent enforcement measures initiated since August of the previous year have yielded positive results. A comparative analysis of violation data between 2022 and 2023 reveals a substantial decrease of 12.8 percent in overloading infractions. The LTO remains steadfast in its resolve to continue this trend and ensure the safety of all road users.
Why is Overloading a Cause for Concern?
Apart from the evident dangers overloaded trucks and trailers pose to road users, they also result in substantial damage to infrastructure. The added strain on roads and bridges invariably speeds up their rate of deterioration, requiring more frequent repairs at significant costs. Additionally, overloading poses a threat to the structural integrity of these essential public facilities, compromising their lifespan. Here’s a list of reasons why overloading remains an important concern:
- Increased risk of road accidents
- Multiple vehicle damage and potential fatalities
- Added financial burden on the national government for repairs
- Shortened lifespan of roads and bridges
- Compromised structural integrity of public infrastructure
Video: LTO Heads Law on Overloading Vehicles
Here’s a news report from News5Everywhere on the crackdown by LTO against overloaded trucks and trailers, which is expected to enhance road safety and reduce the number of road accidents.
Video: Anti-Overloading Law in Philippines
You can check out this video below which explains the anti-overloading law in the Philippines and its strict implementation by the LTO to ensure road safety:
Summary
LTO is spearheading a continuous crackdown on overloaded trucks and trailers as part of its commitment to enhancing road safety. The strict enforcement has resulted in a decrease in overloading violations, which has inflicted significant damage on infrastructure and poses a threat to public safety. The LTO’s efforts are expected to contribute significantly towards reducing the number of accidents caused by overloaded vehicles.
These measures will help cut down on repair costs and preserve the lifespan of roads and bridges, ensuring safe and stable infrastructure for all road users. So, it is essential to strictly implement these regulations in order to promote safer roads in the Philippines. Let us all take responsibility and adhere to these laws to ensure a secure environment for everyone. Remember, safety comes first!