PSSM launches ‘TABI MUNA!’ campaign vs drowsy driving in Clark

The Philippine Society of Sleep Medicine (PSSM) is set to launch its first-ever Drowsy Driving Prevention campaign through the “TABI MUNA!” Sleep Expo on 15 November 2025 at the 3rd Floor, Tower 1, Clark Cityfront Mall, Clark Freeport, Angeles City, Pampanga.

The campaign, which means “pull over,” is a public awareness and road safety initiative that highlights the dangers of driving while fatigued. It urges motorists to get sufficient rest before traveling and to recognize early signs of drowsiness that could lead to accidents — hazards often likened to drunk or distracted driving.

Inspired by the U.S. National Sleep Foundation’s (NSF) Drowsy Driving Prevention initiative, PSSM is adapting the program for local implementation to promote sleep health and responsible driving.

“Our goal is to promote the campaign to a wider public—doctors, healthcare professionals, and business people who can champion the Society’s advocacy, aimed at educating the public about the dangers of fatigue and promote safe behavior,” said PSSM President Dr. Jimmy Chang.

The Sleep Expo will also showcase the latest innovations in sleep and bedding products relevant to healthcare professionals and local consumers.

Following the expo, PSSM will hold its first Regional Caravan on 16 November 2025, from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Park Inn by Radisson Clark in Mabalacat, Pampanga. The event will bring together partners and stakeholders to strengthen sleep health services in Central Luzon, featuring expert-led conferences, industry networking, and educational sessions.

While comprehensive local statistics on drowsy driving in 2025 are not yet available, international studies indicate that up to 30 percent of road accidents are linked to driver sleepiness, primarily caused by sleep deprivation. A recent survey also ranked the Philippines as the most sleep-deprived country in Southeast Asia and fourth worldwide.

The findings underscore the urgency of public education campaigns like PSSM’s initiative, especially amid the pending passage of Senate Bill No. 2063 or the Sleep Disorder Awareness and Education Act, filed by Senator Mark Villar in 2023.

“This event is in partnership with the Department of Transportation (DOTr), the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), and key sponsors including Uratex Philippines, Philips Respironics, and Petron Corporation,” PSSM said. Other sponsors include Quality Sleep Philippines, Respicare, PraxisMed, ResMed, DuraMed, The Air Station, CPAP, Hi-Esai, Trianon, Converge, and Sleep Lab.

“A support to Sleep Expo and Regional Caravan are a support to a healthier and more productive Filipinos,” added Dr. Chang.

The Sleep Expo will be open to the public from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., with a program featuring government officials scheduled from 11 a.m. to 12 noon. The Regional Caravan will also be open to the general public from 7 a.m. to 12 noon, while the afternoon session (1 p.m. to 5 p.m.) will be exclusive to professionals and industry stakeholders.