HPG partners with riders

CEBU, Philippines — At least 2,000 motorists from different associations were gathered by the Highway Patrol Group (HPG) to serve as force multipliers in the implementation of promoting a safe driving.

According to Police Major Michael Gingoyon, HPG-Cebu Province chief, this is a nationwide-activity that aims to lessen the number of road accidents which was assessed to have increased.

These force multipliers will also serve as partners of the group to fully implement and improve their efforts in implementing the safety protocols in driving

This partnership is a nationwide activity initiated by Police Brigadier General Alexander Tagum, HPG director, who spilled over this activity to the regional unit that was also led by regional chief Erwin Rebellon.

Gingoyon said the HPG recognizes the importance of the motorists' cooperation as they hope for their support to strengthen the awareness on road safety along with the anti-criminality campaign.

Road accidents are reportedly the fourth leading cause of death in the Philippines. It is also the number one cause of children fatality with an age bracket of 19 to 29 years old.

Yesterday, the elected officers from 17 motorcycle groups in Cebu such as Naga City, Lapu-Lapu City and Mandaue City also elected their set of officers a whole.

"Among gi-advise sila to be a good person with integrity, good moral character. Actually dili man nga mokuyog jud sila sa mga roving, partners lang sila sa pag-promote sa road discipline, mahimo silang advocate, sila ang mahimong role model," said Gingoyon.

As law enforcers on the highways, Gingoyon said they have chosen motorists as partners since their record tells that 70 percent are motorcycle drivers.

These force multipliers were accordingly fully functional as they have already taken oath by association they belong. —GMR (FREEMAN)