By Emmanuel T. Erediano
[email protected]
Variety News Staff
SENATE Vice President Corina L. Magofna on Friday asked Department of Public Works Secretary Ray N. Yumul to install solar-powered warning signs in school zones.
In her letter to Yumul, Magofna made the request following an accident in front of Admiral Herbert G. Hopwood School, where a student was hit by a vehicle on the crosswalk. She said the incident underscores the urgent need to strengthen traffic safety measures in areas where students cross the road daily.
“School zones are among the most sensitive traffic environments in any community. Students often walk or ride bicycles to school, and during arrival and dismissal hours, there is increased pedestrian activity. Effective traffic warning systems are essential to ensure that drivers reduce speed and remain vigilant,” Magofna said.
She added that solar-powered school zone warning signs provide a proven and practical safety solution. These signs utilize high-visibility flashing LED lights that significantly increase driver awareness and alert motorists to the presence of children and other pedestrians.
“The enhanced visibility helps encourage motorists to slow down and drive more safely,” she said.
Magofna also noted that solar-powered warning systems are particularly well-suited for the island. Because they generate their own power, the signs do not require connection to the Commonwealth Utilities Corp.’s grid, allowing them to be installed in any location without extensive wiring or infrastructure upgrades. This makes the solar-powered signs both cost-effective and easier to deploy, she added.
Emmanuel “Arnold” Erediano has a bachelor of science degree in Journalism. He started his career as police beat reporter. Loves to cook. Eats death threats for breakfast.
