Technology and vigilance are crucial for road discipline

In Metro Manila where traffic is a daily struggle and road rage is too often normalized, one tool has become a silent but powerful enforcer— the camera.

- PINKY CONCHA COLMENARES

Whether it's mounted on a pole, a dashboard, or held by a vigilant citizen, the eye of the lens has become crucial in pushing for accountability on our chaotic roads.

Take the recent case of the driver and bodyguard of an undersecretary of the Department of Transportation (DOTr). Caught on video in Quezon City, the security personnel were seen intimidating a civilian driver after a traffic altercation. The official vehicle bore a “10” protocol plate—one meant for ranking government officials—and even had illegal blinkers turned on, suggesting abuse of authority and entitlement on the road.

Had this incident not been recorded and widely shared on social media, would we even be discussing it today?

Thanks to the footage, public outrage was swift. The DOTr responded by issuing a Notice to Explain to the undersecretary. The involved driver has since been dismissed and had his license suspended for 90 days. Investigations are ongoing.

This isn’t an isolated case. Just last March, a video from Bohol went viral showing Land Transportation Office (LTO) personnel allegedly harassing and arresting a motorcyclist. In response, former Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon ordered their dismissal.

In all these instances, the same formula applies: bad behavior plus camera equals public outcry and (sometimes) official action.