Villar calls for the installation of timers in traffic lights and pedestrian lanes
Senator Mark Villar has sought the installation of timers in traffic lights and pedestrian lights in urban and rural areas to signal the flow of vehicles and pedestrians along the road. In filing Senate Bill (SB) 1959 to be known as the “Traffic Lights and Pedestrian Lights Timer Act”, Villar explained that traffic lights and pedestrian lights are important components of the traffic management system as it helps in regulating the movements on the road. The former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) secretary said that traffic lights typically have three signals, which convey important information to drivers and pedestrians through the use of colors and symbols. However, motorists and pedestrians have problems because of the absence of the countdown timers of some traffic lights. According to the lawmaker, the absence of timers make it difficult to motorists and pedestrians to anticipate the color alert changes, making it challenging for them to properly respond to the signal. To reduce the confusion, risk of accidents, and possible violations, Villar stressed that it is deemed proper to improve the traffic management system by providing clear signals to motorists and pedestrians. Under the bill, timers shall be designed to display the time remaining until the traffic light changes, and shall be clearly visible to drivers and pedestrians. The measure directs the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to require the installation of timers in all traffic and pedestrian lights in urban and rural areas, within one year from the effectivity of the Act. The DPWH, Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), in coordination with Local Government Units (LGUs) shall ensure the maintenance and proper functioning of the timers in traffic lights, and shall take appropriate action to address any malfunctions or failures. The bill states that any person, entity, or local government unit that fails to comply with the provisions of this Act shall be subject to a fine of not less than P 50,000 but not more than P100,000 for each traffic light that does not have a functioning timer. The amount necessary to implement the provisions of this Act shall be included in the annual General Appropriations Act (GAA or national budget). The DPWH, DILG and LGUs shall promulgate the necessary rules and regulations for the effective implementation of this Act.