The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is strengthening safety measures and enforcement to reduce road deaths, with special attention to pedestrians and cyclists. The move follows an order from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to improve road discipline and make the transport system more inclusive.
Undersecretary Mark Steven Pastor said saving lives is a top priority, adding, “One life lost is too much.” Agencies including DOTr, the Land Transportation Office (LTO), and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board are carrying out the Philippine Road Safety Action Plan (PRSAP) 2023–2028. Key actions include reviewing driver licensing rules and strictly checking public utility vehicles for safety and maintenance. The government is also seeking congressional funding support for these policies.
The plan covers five areas: safety management, safer roads, safer vehicles, safer road users, and better post-crash response.
LTO chief Markus Lacanilao noted the agency is using digital tools and stricter enforcement—including crackdowns on unregistered vehicles, road rage, and reckless driving—to boost compliance and accountability.
The World Health Organization, representing the United Nations, reaffirmed its support, promising continued help to build safe, healthy, and inclusive transport systems in the country.
