TACLOBAN CITY – The regional office of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is set to lend its expertise to the Tacloban City government in tackling the persistent issue of traffic congestion.
DOST Leyte Provincial Director John Glenn Ocaña revealed that they have convened with city officials to finalize plans for implementing an automated traffic management system.
This cutting-edge technology, developed with funding from DOST’s Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (PCIEERD), forms a crucial part of Tacloban’s ongoing transformation into a smart and sustainable city, with full support from the agency.
“This automated traffic system represents a significant stride towards establishing Tacloban as a truly smart city,” Ocaña said.
“Beyond just optimizing traffic flow and reducing travel times, this project will also bolster our urban planning capabilities. The real-time data and analytics it provides can inform decisions on long-term infrastructure development for improved road networks,” he added.
City Administrator Atty. Lila Czarina Aquitania expressed the city’s enthusiasm for the initiative, emphasizing the long-standing challenge of traffic congestion and its impact on residents’ lives.
“Traffic congestion has long been a major hurdle, affecting mobility, productivity, and overall quality of life for our citizens,” she said.
“We pledge our full cooperation with DOST’s team throughout the implementation phase. Rest assured, the city government stands ready to provide all necessary support and resources to ensure the seamless deployment of this smart traffic solution,” she stressed.
Once operational, the traffic management system will leverage sensors, cameras, and advanced analytics to optimize traffic signal timings and alleviate congestion across the city, thus enhancing urban planning and improving the overall experience for motorists, commuters, and pedestrians.
Tacloban is among the cities and municipalities in the region identified by DOST for the implementation of Smart and Sustainable City initiatives, aimed at leveraging science, technology, and innovation to deliver enhanced services to the public.
Through the application of technology and innovation, these initiatives aim to achieve greater efficiency in service delivery, governance, ease of doing business, and enhance public safety, economic development, and overall mobility, among other key areas.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
