UN data: Only 52% of PH drivers use seat belts

MANILA: According to the United Nations (UN), only 52% of drivers in the Philippines are using seat belts and this is a sharp 28% decline from 2013 when 79.7% did.

When UN Special Envoy for Road Safety Jean Todt visited the Philippines for four days in April to push for the successful implementation of the Global Plan for the Decade of Action for Road Safety 2021–2030, this data was revealed. By 2030, the initiative seeks to cut the number of victims on the roads in half.

One of the major safety issues the Philippines is dealing with, according to the UN, is the lack of seatbelt use by drivers.

In recent years, motorization in Asian nations has accelerated, particularly in the case of motorized 2-3 wheelers. This method of transportation, which accounts for 40% of collision fatalities in South Asia, needs special attention.

The Philippines' Health Department reports that motorcycle riders make up 65% of those hurt in traffic accidents. Therefore, it is critical to put into practice tried-and-true measures that can save lives, such as wearing a helmet of verified quality, which might cut the risk of fatalities and injuries by 42% and 69%, respectively. The Special Envoy stated that a safe, inexpensive helmet may "change the game" in terms of reducing motorcycle-related fatalities and injuries.

In light of this, the nation has launched fresh steps to improve road safety. For instance, the Philippines published its National Road Safety Action Plan 2023–2028 with a 20% reduction aim, bringing to mind the overall ambition of a 50% reduction by 2030.

Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Jaime Bautista explained the country’s road safety initiative: "Our approach is anchored on prevention. Our targets are the drivers, passengers, pedestrians, other road users and the vehicles. Pertinent agencies of our Department have existing programs that consequently lead to the promotion of road safety.”

Bautista reported that the DOTr is promoting road safety with a program called Active Transport Program.

Bautista said, “This includes constructing protected cycling lanes and paths; end-of-trip bicycle facilities; safe and accessible pedestrian walkways; improvement of existing bike lanes; and establishment of public transport stops. The transport infrastructures were built in partnership with LGUs (local government units).”

The Philippines and its partners, such as the civil society, local government, and the commercial sector, were urged by the UN Special Envoy to participate in the implementation of this action plan.

Photos from the United Nations, Volvo, Department of Transportation

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