Driver's academy pushed amid surge in road crashes

In response to the alarming rise in road crashes nationwide, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has proposed the establishment of a driver's academy aimed at raising professional driving standards.

- Caecent No-ot Magsumbol/FPL

Transportation officials and safety experts point to widespread poor driving behavior, a lack of retraining, and regulatory shortcomings as key contributors to the increase in accidents.

Analysts also emphasize the absence of structured and continuous education for public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers—many of whom operate with no standardized training beyond their initial licensing.

Currently, drivers are not required to undergo refresher courses, behavioral monitoring, or updated briefings on traffic laws once a license is issued.

According to road safety specialist Engr. Danilo Reyes, this is a “deeply rooted problem” in the preparation and regulation of professional drivers.

“There’s no continuing education, no behavioral monitoring, and no refresher courses on updated traffic laws. This creates a culture of recklessness and impunity,” Reyes said.