EDITORIAL - Fifth worst in the world

Will cops do a better job? That’s what Malacañang expects following the designation of the Philippine National Police Highway Patrol Group as the lead agency in managing traffic along the six worst chokepoints along EDSA.

The move was announced after the colossal traffic gridlocks caused by the Iglesia ni Cristo last weekend, and days before the Philippines was rated fifth worst in the world in terms of the traffic situation. In the mid-year Traffic Index drawn up by online database Numbeo, the Philippines ranked just behind Egypt, South Africa, Thailand and Iran in the length of one-way commuting and travel time while Manila ranked 13th worst among the world’s cities. At the start of the year, the Philippines had placed ninth in the country index.

Several studies have estimated the economic losses due to traffic gridlocks to run into billions. Among the measures approved by the government for speedy implementation is the deployment of HPG personnel to untangle snarls along EDSA.

Beginning this Monday, the HPG will take over the task from traffic enforcers of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, whose chairman is busy in the provinces with preparations for his expected bid for the Senate. Although motorists will not miss the MMDA enforcers whose performance has been underwhelming, a common concern raised with the fielding of the HPG is the prospect of kotong or extortion.

It’s not a baseless concern. Many drivers have encountered such cops, for either real or imagined traffic violations. Palace officials have appealed to the public to give the HPG a chance. Only HPG members known for efficiency and integrity will be deployed for the job, Malacañang assured the public.

The HPG members, who are equipped with patrol cars, motorcycles and service firearms, are undergoing additional training in traffic management before their deployment. Public cooperation is needed for the success of any traffic reduction scheme. If the new traffic cops want public support, they need to earn drivers’ respect, by carrying out their task honestly and efficiently.