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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider MMDA eyes AI-powered video detectors for Metro Manila traffic management by next year

MMDA eyes AI-powered video detectors for Metro Manila traffic management by next year

Published Jul 3, 2025 01:15 pm
MMDA chairperson Don Artes discusses the current traffic management systems in Metro Manila and the future plans of the agency to maximize the use of artificial intelligence during a press briefing at the MMDA Head Office in Pasig City on Thursday, July 3, 2025. (photo: MMDA)
MMDA chairperson Don Artes discusses the current traffic management systems in Metro Manila and the future plans of the agency to maximize the use of artificial intelligence during a press briefing at the MMDA Head Office in Pasig City on Thursday, July 3, 2025. (photo: MMDA)
Artificial intelligence (AI) may soon take control of the traffic management in key areas in the National Capital Region as the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) is embarking on advanced technology through adaptive signaling systems.
From the current countdown timers and sensor-based traffic lights, MMDA chairperson Don Artes said they want to maximize the use of technology by using AI-powered video detectors.
“This is part of the efforts to adopt the latest technologies and innovations for improved public service. We want to employ innovation by advancing traffic detection from ground loop detector to video detector,” Artes told reporters in a press briefing at the MMDA Head Office in Pasig City.
As we phase in the adaptive signaling system, this innovation represents a major step towards ensuring smooth traffic flow, minimizing road crashes, and optimizing efficiency, he added.
Artes said the advanced traffic detection using artificial intelligence promises to improve traffic flow and even minimize road crashes in Metro Manila.
Based on the assessment of the MMDA Traffic Engineering Center (TEC), traffic signal systems with video detectors are less susceptible to damage from roadworks, harsh weather, and physical interference.
As it is powered by AI-technology, Artes said it can capture additional information about vehicles such as speed, direction, and license plate numbers.
Hopefully, by next year, this innovation will be put into place,” said Artes.
Artes explained that the current traffic management system that uses signal countdown timers is susceptible to road crashes, especially in intersections.
He then showed several videos showing the incompatibility of the traffic signal countdown timers wherein drivers were making split-decisions to speed through intersections, beating the red light incidents, and others.
And this is the reason why last week, the MMDA announced that it has removed traffic light countdown timers in 96 intersections along major thoroughfares in Metro Manila.
They were replaced by old fixed-timer traffic lights with an adaptive signaling system which uses sensors.
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