DRIVING THOUGHTS
A casual observation of vehicles moving in traffic, or stopping at intersections for traffic signals, will show the prevalence of motorists using mobile phones – for navigation, entertainment, or communications.
And although there is a law that prohibits the use of mobile devices for texting, calling, gaming, or other activities while driving unless with hands-free devices, there are many who use them for entertainment or communications. When you notice a vehicle swerving left and right, or driving erratically, overtake and you will likely see that the driver is either on the phone or is typing a message. The law’s intent to minimize distractions and enhance focus on the road is not clear to these motorists. By now, it is unlikely that a motorist does not know it is illegal to use mobile devices while driving. But who knows, there’s someone out there who claims not to know.
Republic Act No. 10913, known as the “Anti-Distracted Driving Act,” was enacted in 2016 to mitigate vehicular accidents caused by the use of mobile and electronic devices while driving. The law is a vital step in promoting road safety, yet its relevance, enforcement, and adaptability to current realities raise significant questions.
Today, with the increasing dependence on mobile phones for navigation, particularly in urban areas like Metro Manila with its bad traffic condition, compliance has become challenging. Apps like Waze and Google Maps are indispensable for drivers navigating heavy traffic, often requiring periodic attention to the screen.
While the law allows for hands-free use, issues arise when drivers mount devices in positions obstructing their line of sight. This loophole poses risks and questions the practicality of enforcement. Additionally, many drivers, unaware of proper mounting protocols or hands-free solutions, continue to engage with devices manually, inadvertently violating the law.
Despite the clear stipulations of RA 10913, implementation remains inconsistent. The Land Transportation Office (LTO) and agencies like the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) are tasked with enforcement. However, reports indicate lapses in apprehending violators, often due to insufficient manpower, unclear guidelines, or lack of technological support for monitoring.
In 2023 alone, the MMDA reported over 10,000 citations for distracted driving. However, this figure likely represents a fraction of actual violations due to limited surveillance and reliance on physical apprehensions rather than automated systems like closed-circuit television (CCTV). Penalties, including fines ranging from ₱5,000 to ₱30,000, aim to deter violations, but without consistent enforcement, their impact is diluted.
Drivers’ attitudes also play a role in the law’s uneven implementation. Many motorists prioritize convenience over safety, underestimating the risks of distracted driving. Among offenders are public transportation drivers who have been observed to use phones for personal calls or coordinating with passengers, and many drivers of private vehicles who seem to find entertainment in holding a conversation — or sending and reading messages — while driving at a slow pace.
The lack of widespread awareness campaigns exacerbates the issue. The mandated six-month information campaign was insufficient to embed compliance deeply into drivers’ habits. Many drivers remain unaware of the law’s specifics, such as the prohibition on holding devices even while stopped at a red light.
The Anti-Distracted Driving Law remains fundamentally relevant. The principle of promoting undivided attention while driving is critical, especially in the Philippines, where road accidents are a leading cause of injuries and fatalities. However, its execution must evolve alongside technological advancements and urban realities.
To ensure the law’s continued relevance and effectiveness, the government must adopt a multi-faceted approach: Equip law enforcement agencies with tools like AI-powered traffic monitoring systems to detect and document violations automatically. Give clearer guidelines for the use of devices. Intensify public education campaigns. Promote the use of advanced hands-free systems, voice-activated navigation, and Bluetooth technology. And establish a mechanism for regularly revisiting the law to address emerging technologies and shifting driving behaviors.
The law addresses a critical issue in road safety. However, its implementation and relevance must keep pace with evolving urban challenges and technological trends. By refining enforcement mechanisms, enhancing public education, and leveraging technology, the government can ensure that the law remains a powerful tool in reducing accidents and safeguarding lives.
The need for undivided attention on the road is timeless; laws like RA 10913 must adapt to ensure they fulfill their purpose effectively in a dynamic environment.