Authorities are investigating the theft of 171 road signs in Nueva Ecija, which has made driving at night more dangerous, especially in areas that are lit poorly.

According to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) - Nueva Ecija 1st District Engineering Office (DPWH-1st DEO), the road signs were stolen between December 2024 and February 16, 2025 from the Pinagpanaan-Rizal-Pantabangan Road, San Jose-Rizal Road, and Maharlika Highway in Barangay Joson, Carranglan.

The signs were put up in areas far from residential communities.

“Basically kasi sir ‘yung ating mga signages is naka-knot and bolt lang po ‘yan, so madali lang po talaga nilang matanggal,” Engr. Marvin Gavino, Maintenance Section Chief of DPWH Nueva Ecija 1st DEO, said.

The DPWH has coordinated with the Nueva Ecija Police Provincial Office (NEPPO) to address the issue.

Authorities have obtained closed circuit television (CCTV) footage to help identify the culprits.

“Sabihan ko po ‘yung COP (Chief of Police)... delikado yan, eh 'pag wala ‘yung signage na ‘yan lalo na sa gabi, delikado sa motorista yan,” PCOL. Ferdinand Germino, Director of NEPPO, said.

To assist motorists, the DPWH has placed reflectorized stickers temporarily as road guides.

The agency is also calling on the public to report individuals caught stealing road signs and has warned junk shop owners against purchasing stolen signs, as they could face legal consequences.

“Amin lang pong pakiusap po sa mga nagninegosyo [sa kalakaran]... ‘wag niyo pong bilhin para hindi po sila magkaroon ng problema. Kayo na rin po sana mismo ang makatulong sa amin na mag-report o magsumbong kung may ganyang binebenta po sa inyo,” Gavino said.