Report Philippines' DOTr Announces New Safety Measures After Fatal Crashes

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Photo: PhilStar

 

In response to a spate of tragic vehicular accidents, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) in the Philippines has unveiled a series of measures aimed at enhancing road safety. The announcement follows two major incidents: a bus collision at the SCTEX toll plaza resulting in 12 fatalities, and a sports utility vehicle crash at the entrance of Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1, claiming two lives.

 

Acknowledging public concern, DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon stated, "People do not feel safe on our streets," underscoring the urgency to address systemic issues in road safety. Dizon outlined several key initiatives to this end:

 

1. Mandatory Drug Testing: Public Utility Vehicle (PUV) drivers will undergo regular drug testing every 90 days, with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) set to assist in rolling out the policy. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to ensure drivers are fit for duty, with the department order expected to take immediate effect following its signing.
2. Reduced Driving Hours: The DOTr has instructed the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) and the Land Transportation Office (LTO) to lower the maximum consecutive driving hours from six to four. For journeys exceeding this duration, operators must provide a relief driver to mitigate fatigue-related accidents.
3. Enhanced Roadworthiness Checks: Dizon emphasized the need for stringent and meaningful roadworthiness inspections for buses and jeeps, which are often inadequate. The LTO and LTFRB have been tasked with developing robust measures aligned with international standards to ensure vehicle safety.
4. Rigorous Driver Testing: The DOTr is pushing for more comprehensive testing for drivers of large vehicles, including trucks and buses. This includes addressing corruption in testing facilities, where passing drivers without proper evaluation is common.
5. Implementation of Speed Limiter Act: Republic Act 10916 mandates the installation of speed limiters on PUVs. The DOTr aims to expedite the full implementation of this law and encourages expanding the market beyond a single supplier for such devices.
6. Public Transport Safety Board: Dizon called for legislative approval to establish a Public Transport Safety Board, institutionalizing transport safety reforms and ensuring ongoing oversight and improvement.

 

These measures, collectively, represent a concerted effort by the DOTr to improve road safety, restore public confidence in transportation, and prevent further tragedies on Philippine roads.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from PhilStar 2025-05-05