The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and its partners conducted a three-day stakeholders’ meeting to formulate the Metro Manila Road Safety Action Plan (MMRSAP) 2024-2028. The MMRSAP 2024-2028 will serve as the framework for the region’s road safety efforts, aiming to reduce road crash fatalities by 35% by 2028. Supported by the Department of Transportation (DOTr), World Health Organization (WHO) Philippines, and The Policy Center (TPC), this activity is part of the celebration for the Philippine Road Safety Month.

The Metro Manila Accident Reporting and Analysis System (MMARAS) revealed an alarming rate of approximately 92,583 road crashes annually over the past few decades, resulting in an average of 410 deaths each year. Among these fatalities, 51% are drivers, 36% are pedestrians, and 13% are passengers. These statistics emphasize the urgent need for enhanced road safety measures to protect all road users and reduce the number of preventable deaths.

Representatives from Metro Manila’s local government units (LGUs) and technical experts from various agencies, including the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Department of Health (DOH), Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), Land Transportation Office (LTO), Philippine National Police-National Capital Region Police Office (PNP-NCRPO), Philippine National Police-Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG), and University of the Philippines-National Center for Transportation Studies (UP-NCTS), convened to strategize the development of the plan. The stakeholders focused on crucial aspects of the MMRSAP, emphasizing the five pillars of road safety: road safety management, safer roads, safer vehicles, safer road users, and post-crash response.

MMDA Assistant General Manager for Planning OIC Atty. Victor Pablo Trinidad, in his message on behalf of MMDA Acting Chairman Atty. Don Artes said, “The contributions and insights from representatives from NGAs and LGUs have deeply enriched the discussions on the challenges of preserving road safety and the exploration of essential strategies and initiatives to enhance the bustling metropolis.”

“Inspired by our discussions and dialogue, we are poised to forge ahead in crafting a comprehensive action plan that will pave the way for safer and more efficient road systems in Metro Manila. Together, we have the power to effect positive change and create a safer environment for motorists, pedestrians, and commuters alike,” said Trinidad.

Atty. Yla Paras, president of TPC, assured the public that the stakeholders would work towards an inclusive plan that ensures fairness, community involvement, and prioritizes everyone’s safety on the road.

DOTr Project Evaluation Officer Paulo Mejia underscored the region’s alignment with the objectives of the national road safety plan while reiterating the department’s commitment to enhancing transportation safety and mitigating road risks across Metro Manila and beyond.

“Road safety is a shared responsibility. To address this public health issue, multisectoral actions ensuring sound road safety governance, safer roads, safer vehicles, safer road users, and post-crash response care are imperative. The Road Safety Action Plan for Metro Manila 2024-2028 that is being developed will provide a blueprint for evidence-based interventions to save lives and prevent serious injuries from road crashes in Metro Manila,” said Dr. Rui Paulo de Jesus, WHO Representative to the Philippines.

The formulation of a road safety action plan for the region is an identified component of Project 6: Traffic Safety and Education under the 5-Year Action Plan of the Comprehensive Traffic Management Plan for Metro Manila funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency. The MMRSAP is instrumental in improving road safety in Metro Manila, moving towards a sustainable and livable environment for all.