Police forces in the Bicol region are continuously monitoring the situation in traffic jam prone areas of the Andaya Highway in Camarines Sur as part of the measure to address the travel woes of motorists.

Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil, chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), said there was an instruction to the local police to continuously coordinate with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and the local government units to monitor and address traffic conditions. 

“Motorists are still encouraged to stay patient, follow traffic advisories, and use designated alternate routes to ease travel during this period,’ said Marbil.

As the traffic condition along the Andaya Highway significantly improved, Marbil commended the policemen earlier deployed in the area for helping in the mitigation of the severe traffic congestion. 

In response to the worsening traffic caused by ongoing road repairs and adverse weather, the PNP deployed additional personnel from the Highway Patrol Group (HPG) to manage traffic flow round-the-clock.  

Officers on the ground implemented measures such as the 30-minute interval scheme, allowing vehicles from opposing directions to pass alternately, which has considerably reduced congestion.

Police teams have been instrumental in securing DPWH equipment essential for road rehabilitation efforts. 

Marbil also acknowledged the innovative approaches introduced by the police force to alleviate traffic, including the implementation of diversion routes for light vehicles. Motorists are directed to take alternative paths, such as the Sipocot-Camarines Norte route or the Sta. Elena-Capalonga, Daet, Camarines Norte route, to bypass heavily congested areas.

“Their presence has ensured the safe and timely delivery of materials, facilitating the swift progress of repair works aimed at restoring normal traffic conditions. Our police officers' commitment and hard work have brought significant relief to a situation that once saw traffic stretch over 17 kilometers. Without their efforts, the problem would have persisted," said Marbil. 

"Our officers have demonstrated exceptional resourcefulness and dedication in addressing this challenge. Their 24-hour presence and efforts have made travel safer and more efficient for the public," he added.