SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, Philippines — One of the hazards along major highways are stray animals. Suddenly swerving or braking your car to avoid hitting these wayward creatures may endanger other vehicles – and people – in the immediate area.
Addressing this safety concern is the North Luzon Expressway Corporation (NLEX)’s “I Care for Strays” program, which aims to contribute to the prevention and management of stray animal incidents inside the expressway and along local roads.
Part of NLEX’s Mission Road Safety campaign, the program was launched last Friday at Barangay Patubig, Marilao, Bulacan and is in partnership with the provincial government of Bulacan, Municipality of Marilao, Bulacan Provincial Veterinary Office, Marilao Municipal Veterinary Office and the Estrella Animal Welfare Advocates.
During the program launch, an orientation on animal welfare laws, responsible pet ownership and stray animal population control was conducted for pet owners from Marilao and nearby municipalities. Free spay and neuter services, as well as deworming and anti-rabies vaccinations, were given to over 300 cats and dogs at the event.
“I Care for Strays is our way of promoting and protecting animal welfare while ensuring the safety of our motorists and community members,” Donna Marcelo, NLEX vice president for communication and stakeholder management division, said.
“By addressing and preventing incidents involving stray animals on expressways and local roads, we aim to safeguard everyone’s safety,” she added.
Gov. Daniel Fernando of Bulacan commended the advocacy. “Your concern for the safety and welfare of our pets is an important step towards safer and better roads here in the province of Bulacan.”
Marilao Mayor Henry Lutao assured NLEX of his support for programs that benefit Marilao residents.
“We commend the dedication of NLEX in educating and assisting the residents of its host communities,” he said.
The I Care for Strays program is just one of a couple of NLEX’s information campaigns geared towards road safety. Another is the Kaligtasan Sa Daan or KalSaDa program, where residents from NLEX, Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway or SCTEX and NLEX Connector host communities are educated on responsible road usage, road safety tips and ways to keep their environment safe for both residents and motorists.
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