Responsible driving key to safe travel

Traffic on roads continues to grow, putting greater pressure on motorists and other stakeholders to work together in promoting responsible driving.

For businesses that depend on efficient mobility and for the public that relies on safe travel, disciplined road behavior is now essential to keeping expressways safer and more predictable.

Recent data highlight the urgency.

The Highway Patrol Group recorded 2,747 road fatalities in 2024, a sharp 35 percent increase from the previous year, with most incidents linked to reckless driving. Motorcycle riders remain especially at risk, as MMDA data show motorcycle accidents rising to 78 cases per day in 2023.

Tollway operators note that while many motorists follow safety protocols, some motorcycle riders continue to disregard basic traffic rules, such as lane discipline, speed limits, and the proper use of designated lanes.

These violations often trigger avoidable crashes that disrupt traffic flow and threaten other road users.

The push for responsible driving aims to complement modern tollway systems, which include upgraded road design and expanded traffic monitoring. Operators emphasize that even with new technology and improved infrastructure, safety ultimately depends on the cooperation of the motorists who use these roads daily.

Gov’t involvement crucial

Government efforts add momentum to this call. The Philippine Road Safety Action Plan 2023–2028, launched with the World Health Organization, places strong emphasis on protecting “vulnerable road users,” particularly motorcyclists who continue to account for a significant share of crashes and fatalities.

For companies that rely on transport and logistics, safer roads mean fewer delays, lower operational risks, and more reliable movement of goods and people. Responsible driving directly supports business continuity, especially during peak travel periods when congestion and crash risks are highest.

By strengthening safety practices on tollways and encouraging motorists—especially motorcycle riders—to follow traffic rules, both the private sector and government can help reduce road accidents and create a safer, more efficient travel environment for all.