On May 30, 2025, the University of the Philippines National Center for Transportation Studies (UP NCTS), through its Traffic Engineering and Management (TEM) Group, convened transport stakeholders for the first installment of the UP NCTS Webinar Series 2025. The session, titled “Challenges in Road Crash Data Collection: Are We Getting the Full Picture?”, highlighted persistent issues in road crash data reporting and emphasized the potential of technology and partnerships in improving road safety outcomes.
The webinar began with opening remarks from Dr. Jun T. Castro, Director of UP NCTS, who underscored the importance of data accuracy and institutional coordination in developing targeted safety interventions. Mr. Glenn Simon D. Latonero, University Extension Associate, oriented participants on the goals of the program and the context of the webinar series.
The first presentation was delivered by Ms. Shanna Lucchesi, Project Coordinator of the International Road Assessment Programme (iRAP). She demonstrated how artificial intelligence and big data analytics are being used globally to assess risk and evaluate road safety performance.
Following this, Engr. Mar Anthony Santos, Jr., Head of the Metro Manila Accident Reporting and Analysis System (MMARAS) under the MMDA Traffic Engineering Center, outlined the operational and institutional challenges in local crash data collection. He cited issues such as inconsistent reporting practices, underreporting, and lack of integration across agencies—factors that hinder the formulation of comprehensive safety measures.
Rounding out the presentations, Atty. Cynthia Maria Casiño, Chief of Corporate Governance and Head of Sustainability at Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC), discussed the crucial role of public-private partnerships (PPPs) in enhancing road safety initiatives. Her talk highlighted how toll operators and private entities can contribute not only through funding but also by embedding safety standards, sharing data, and advocating for policy innovation.
The event’s interactive Q&A session, moderated by Dr. Hilario Sean O. Palmiano, allowed attendees to engage directly with the speakers on questions ranging from data-sharing protocols to stakeholder accountability. The session was capped by a synthesis and closing message from Dr. Sandy Mae A. Gaspay, Head of the TEM Group.
The webinar served as a critical venue for connecting the dots—between crash statistics, analytical tools, and institutional collaboration.
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