The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) recently decided to make road safety training mandatory for Public Utility Vehicle (PUV) franchise renewals. This is a positive step toward enhancing the safety of drivers, passengers, and pedestrians alike. While this decision is a step in the right direction, it is high time for the government to expand this initiative and make safety training mandatory for all drivers. Road safety should not be optional. It must be a fundamental part of every driver’s qualification.
Accidents caused by reckless or uninformed driving have become all too common. According to data from the Philippine Statistics Authority, road crashes continue to be one of the leading causes of death and injury in the country. In 2024 alone, the number of deaths from road accidents reached 2,700. These accidents often stem from poor decision-making, lack of awareness, and simple negligence. What’s even more alarming is that these accidents could be preventable with proper training. Drivers, whether of public or private vehicles, often encounter high-pressure situations that require quick thinking, adequate knowledge of road safety laws, and an understanding of defensive driving techniques. Unfortunately, too many drivers operate without such essential skills.
Take, for instance, the tragic incident in 2024 in Quezon City where a public utility bus rammed several motorcycles and a van, resulting in multiple fatalities. This and many similar accidents point to a glaring need for comprehensive driver education, particularly on how to avoid common pitfalls such as speeding, distracted driving, and failing to yield the right of way.
The implementation of mandatory safety training could play a pivotal role in reducing these fatalities and injuries. For PUV drivers, the training program, as stated by the LTFRB, will focus on road safety, discipline, and proper driving etiquette. It will equip them with the skills to navigate complex traffic conditions, understand traffic laws, and deal with unexpected hazards on the road. However, these skills should not be reserved only for PUV drivers. Private vehicle owners and commercial drivers also need formal training. After all, it is not just PUVs that are involved in accidents. In fact, private vehicle drivers account for a significant percentage of road crashes. A uniform safety training requirement would ensure that all drivers, regardless of the vehicle they operate, are equipped with the skills to drive safely.
One of the primary benefits of mandatory safety training is the reduction of road rage and the improvement of overall road etiquette. Drivers who are trained on the importance of patience, maintaining a safe distance, and avoiding distractions such as mobile phone use while driving are less likely to engage in aggressive driving behavior. Additionally, well-trained drivers are better prepared for emergency situations, potentially preventing accidents from escalating.
Another compelling reason for mandatory safety training is its ability to increase driver accountability. Training sessions often emphasize the consequences of reckless driving, not only for the driver but also for the community. By instilling a sense of responsibility and ethics, drivers will be more conscious of their actions behind the wheel, reducing the likelihood of reckless behavior that can lead to fatal accidents.
The government should seize the opportunity to take this initiative beyond the PUV sector. Extending mandatory safety training to all drivers could drastically reduce road accidents. Authorities should bear in mind that this is not just a matter of law enforcement. Foremost, this is about saving lives and ensuring that safety is prioritized above all else. After all, the ultimate goal is not merely to reduce the number of accidents but to create a culture of safety in every driver’s mindset.