Transportation has always been a crucial issue for Filipinos as not only countless hours are lost in traffic, but also P3 billion per day according to the Japan International Cooperation Agency. If left unaddressed, the loss could rise to P5.4 billion per day by 2035.

That’s why 24 transport groups gathered together at the Rembrandt Hotel in Tomas Morato, Quezon City, for the first-ever transport and commuter summit convened by the Pilipino Society and Development Advocates Commuter-Consumer Incorporated (PASADA). Known as the “Magkaisa Summit,” the members signed a Manifesto of Solidarity and Action Plan.

The document discussed the most pressing issues faced by these sectors, and suggested proposals for regulators and enforcers. The key concepts used for these recommendations were based on “smart cities” and “sustainable mobility.”

Smart cities use information and communication technologies that gather data to get things done more efficiently, and one of the examples is the No Contact Apprehension Program (NCAP). That is the reason dishonest motorists cover their license plates. Not only would it make traffic management much more efficient, but would also reduce corruption among enforcers.

Sustainable mobility refers to modes of transportation that move the most people while having minimal negative impact on society and the environment. This is needed more than ever with traffic returning to pre-pandemic levels, especially as schools and offices return to in-person operations, which is why inclusive infrastructure such as PWD-friendly walkways, transport terminals, and safe bicycle lanes must be supported.

The group submitted its manifesto to outgoing President Rodrigo Duterte and the office of former Deputy Speaker Martin Romualdez. With Ferdinand Marcos Jr. set to be the next president, a copy was also sent to incoming Executive Secretary Atty. Vic Rodriguez with around 5,000 commuters and transport workers backing the manifesto.