THE Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has intensified its initiatives to address increases in road accidents.
The agency on Wednesday introduced the country’s first drowsy driving prevention campaign, titled “Tabi Muna” which aims to enhance awareness on driving hazards including fatigue, and to motivate drivers to rest and refresh themselves.
The MMDA initiated the project in partnership with the Department of Transportation (DOTR) and private stakeholders, including the Philippine Society of Sleep Medicine (PSSM), Uratex, Petron, and Philips.
As part of the information, education, and communication campaign, three television campaign ads were launched under the Tabi Muna initiative to remind drivers of the importance of obtaining sufficient sleep and rest to ensure their safety while operating a vehicle.
The ads were expected to be showcased in theaters in 2026.
The MMDA, the DOTr, and private collaborators support the MMDA initiative in response to the increasing number of incidents involving drowsy or fatigued drivers.
Through the implementation of various educational programs and outreach activities, the government aims to significantly mitigate the risks associated with drowsy driving.
The MMDA reported approximately 4,450 road traffic fatalities over the last decade in the National Capital Region (NCR), averaging 445 deaths annually from 2013 to 2023.
This information was shared during the Road Safety Summit 2025, referencing data from the Metro Manila Accident Reporting and Analysis System (MMARAS).
During the same period, there were 1,011,786 recorded road crashes in the region. Of these incidents, 81 percent resulted in property damage, 19 percent caused non-fatal injuries, and 0.44 per led to fatalities.
The MMDA convened the summit to address the escalating number of road accidents in NCR. The initiative is part of the agency’s dedication to addressing the concerning rise in road crashes and fatalities within the region.
It underscores the urgent necessity for improved road user behavior, enhanced road infrastructure, and stricter enforcement of traffic regulations.
