Road Safety Plan aims to reduce crash fatalities in Metro by 35%

THE Metropolitan Manila Development Authority yesterday said the government aims to reduce road crash fatalities in the metropolis by 35 percent by 2028 through the Metro Manila Road Safety Action Plan (MMRSAP) 2024-2028.

The plan was a product of a three-day stakeholders meeting attended by MMDA officials, representatives from Metro Manila’s 17 local government units, as well as other government agencies that ended yesterday.

MMDA Assistant General Manager for Planning OIC Atty. Victor Pablo Trinidad said the MMRSAP 2024-2028 will serve as the framework for the region’s road safety efforts.

“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,” Trinidad, who represented MMDA Chairperson Romando Artes, told the gathering, which is part of the celebration of the Philippine Road Safety Month.

Data from the Metro Manila Accident Reporting and Analysis System (MMARAS) revealed an alarming rate of approximately 92,583 road crashes annually over the past few years, resulting in an average of 410 deaths each year.

Among the fatalities, 51 percent were drivers, 36 percent were pedestrians, and 13 percent were passengers.

Data presented by the Department of Health early this year showed that 12,000 Filipinos die yearly nationwide due to road crashes, a figure that has steadily increased in the last decade.

From 7,938 deaths in 2011, the number increased to 11,096 deaths in 2021, with males representing 84 percent of the fatalities.

“These statistics emphasize the urgent need for enhanced road safety measures to protect all road users and reduce the number of preventable deaths,” Trinidad said.

The MMRSAP, according to the MMDA will emphasize five pillars of road safety, namely, road safety management, safer roads, safer vehicles, safer road users, and post-crash response.

Department of Transportation Project Evaluation Officer Paulo Mejia underscored the region’s alignment with the objectives of the