Intelligent transport systems pushed

A coalition of twenty-four transport groups called “Magkaisa” is strongly recommending to the incoming Marcos administration to explore technology and intelligent transport systems to improve the commuter experience, according to a report by Manila Bulletin.

The group urged president-elect Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to address the difficulties experienced by motorists, calling for the use of intelligent technologies that promote good governance, efficiency in public services, and safer roads.

Magkaisa proposed the use of Smart City and Sustainable Mobility concepts that support the following: ride-hailing services; building of more bike lanes; technology-driven traffic monitoring and enforcement; and the construction of more commuter-friendly terminals for senior citizens, children, pregnant women, and persons with disabilities.

Representatives of public utility vehicles (PUVs), bus drivers, operators, and commuter groups signed a Manifesto of Solidarity and Action Plan detailing their challenges as well as their recommendations to regulators.

The Pilipino Society and Development Advocates Incorporated (PASADA CC), a non-governmental organization for the welfare of commuters and transport workers, want the incoming Marcos administration to construct more pay-parking buildings, support ride-hailing services, provide safe pedestrian crossings, intersections and footways.

They also lobbied for improving regulations for two-wheel motorists, and local government units (LGU) implementing No Contact Apprehension Programs (NCAP) to eradicate corruption and instill motorist discipline.

The group cited the province of Bataan which reduced vehicular accidents by 82.5 percent when NCAP was implemented.

Various LGUs which implemented NCAP likewise reported a reduction in the number of violations committed by 31 percent.

The group also urged the incoming administration to prioritize transport issues as traffic congestion in Metro Manila has returned to pre-pandemic levels now that schools and offices have resumed face-to-face operations.

The group submitted their Manifesto, supported by 5,000 commuters and transport workers, including the Federation of Jeepney Operators and Drivers Association of the Philippines (FEJODAP) and the National Public Transport Coalition, to the government on Friday, June 17.