Senator Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa stressed the need to come up with a "permanent solution" to minimize road mishaps along the Marilaque (Marikina-Rizal-Laguna-Quezon) Highway.

"It’s about time that the Highway Patrol Group (HPG) of the Philippine National Police (PNP) tightens its grip along the whole stretch of the Marilaque highway with the support of course of the local police and the LGUs," Dela Rosa said.

At the Senate Public Order and Dangerous Drugs hearing last Monday, Feb. 3, the senator had the chance to bring up the matter to the attention of Highway Patrol Group Director PBGen. Eleazar Mata.

“Ang dami nang disgrasya diyan sa Marilaque Highway at ang dami nang mga nagkokomento bakit mahina ang law enforcement natin pagdating sa area na ‘yan (There have been so many accidents on Marilaque Highway, and many people have been commenting on why our law enforcement is so weak in that area)," Dela Rosa said.

The former PNP chief's comments came after yet another accident occurred recently that resulted to the death of a motorcycle rider and injury to some spectators along the highway in Barangay Cuyambay, Tanay.

The particular accident was the 13th to happen this year, according to reports.

The senator urged the government to consult with public safety and road experts in crafting a strategy that would deter riders from using the road as a speed track.

“We don’t care whatever their motives are. What is important is we have to restore order along that national highway ng Marilaque para maiwasan na ‘yung (to avoid the) future accidents," the senator added.

Dela Rosa also reiterated that the HPG should closely monitor reckless riders who engage in dangerous activity along the highway.