Real Talk

Why We Hold Road Safety Awareness Month In May

by Alexa Villano
May 9, 2025

Two vehicular accidents that killed several people, including children, made headlines. What can commuters and drivers do?

In the last two weeks, vehicular accidents made headlines, and unfortunately, they claimed several lives. Ten people perished in an accident on the SCTEX Toll in Tarlac, and 37 people were injured. Two people were killed in a mishap at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, including a young girl named Malia Masongsong at the Departure Curbside of NAIA 1.

The father of Malia, Danmark, told ABS-CBN that he’s devastated by the loss of his child. What pains him even more is to tell his wife that their daughter is gone.

The accidents not only caused the lives of innocent bystanders, but it also showed flaws when it comes to the rules on road safety and driving.

City Culture Vs Provincial Road Culture

Although the LTO and DOTR have been strict with regulations, it’s going to take a while before Philippine road culture changes. After all, each city has its own road culture. In some cities, some have more drivers who love beating the red light, not using their signal lights, tailgating, cutting, and swerving without stating intent.

However, driving isn’t limited to just the rules in the driving manual. There’s also knowing when to change lanes, anticipating at least five cars ahead, staying aware of where one’s tires go, and knowing which roads are one-way or two-way. Unfortunately, those are usually learned through experience. That’s why the running joke is, “If you can drive in Metro Manila, you can drive anywhere.”

Though, we’re thinking Davao may now be the new place to test one’s mettle as a good driver.

Accidents have happened in roads the past weeks.

The Importance of Basic Rules

Driver or not, we have been told the basic rules on the road. One of the rules that has been consistent is never to drink while driving, which unfortunately is always abused.

Beating the red light has also become common, especially when people are always in a hurry. More than violating a rule, not many know that this can cause an accident.

Swerving on the road without signalling has also become a big problem. Situations like this can cause accidents, injuries, or even death.

Road rage has become a big problem in recent years. From insults to threats, things can get out of hand and cause commotion and danger.

More than the basic rules, it’s important that government officials adhere to and check road safety. It’s their job to ensure that roads are passable and that infrastructure meets the highest standards.

Basic driving rules should always be enforced.

Safety Is Priority for Families

This Road Safety Awareness Month, it is important to emphasize again the importance of the basic rules on the road. Families go on out-of-town trips, and it’s important to remind the safety of traveling.

In recent years, several rules have been implemented, including car seats for kids and the use of seat belts. These rules may be basic for some, but they have been a big help in the safety of people on the road.

More than the rules, it’s important to practice discipline. If we can be disciplined in other parts of the world, why can’t we practice it in our backyard?

Let us practice safety on the road beyond Road Safety Month. Lives are at stake. As Anne Curtis tweeted, following the accidents in the past weeks may be a wake-up call for stringent measures on giving drivers’ licenses and road safety measures.