Gordon calls on holiday travelers to be safety-conscious

With the expected influx of travelers going home to spend the Christmas holidays in the provinces, Independent Senator Richard J. Gordon today cautioned travelers to take extra precautionary measures to ensure their safe travel.

Gordon reminded travelers that though concerned government agencies have the duty to take steps to ensure the safety of passengers, the public must also do their part and take care of their personal safety.

"With the long Christmas break, many of our countrymen will go home in the provinces to spend the holidays with their loved ones. Our sea and ports will be crowded and traffic in the expressways will be heavy," he said.

"Though the government is tasked to ensure public safety at all times, the public should also help the government by taking care of their own personal safety, and not risk their lives and their families unnecessarily," he added.

Gordon issued the warning a few days after the cargo-passenger vessel M/B Maejan capsized in Ballesteros, Cagayan last Dec. 14 which resulted to the death of 28 passengers and 28 others remaining missing.

As chairman of the Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC), Gordon also reminded the various PNRC field units as well as the disaster coordinating councils be alert for any emergencies that may arise.

"The disaster coordinating councils must always be prepared for any eventuality, more so in times like this when there will be huge crowds," he pointed out.

The PNRC has formed the Red Cross 143, which aims to have 44 volunteers, one team leader and 43 members who will serve as eyes, ears and feet of any community during disasters or emergencies.