Markleo Casingsing Caballero was anxious after he was flagged down at the police checkpoint. He was not wearing a helmet. While he thought he would be getting a citation ticket, he was instead given a new and standard helmet.
“Nagpasalamat ko sa Dinagat Islands pulis kay naa na koy helmet, safe na akong pag-drive [Thank you, Dinagat Islands police, for the free helmet; it’s safe to drive now],” Caballero expressed his gratitude.
Caballero as well as the other riders who were stopped for not wearing helmets were made to listen to a safety reminder and a brief explainer on the provisions of Republic Act No. 10054 or the Motorcycle Helmet Act of 2009.
According to Major Ruel B. Saliba, force commander of DIPMFP, the Project Helmets started in 2020. Under the program, they give away two helmets in a month.
“We still continue to reprimand drivers without helmets, as this is part of law enforcement. However, instead of instilling fear in people, Project Helmets considered cops as enablers,” PMaj. Saliba said.
“We also understand those who cannot afford to purchase a helmet which is why we are trying our best to help them get one to better promote road safety. This is the reason why the island province has a very low crime rate on road violations and accidents,” Saliba shared.
