The University of the Philippines National Center for Transportation Studies (UPNCTS) recently hosted a visit from the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to discuss potential collaborations and partnerships for the conduct of priority transportation-related policy studies. The visit was led by Asec. Leonel Cray P. De Velez, Assistant Secretary for Planning and Project Development, and was accompanied by Ms. Erika Joy M. Navarro of the Planning and Project Development Office, Mr. Darryl Loyola of the Rail Transportation Planning Division, and Mr. Carl John Buzon of the Road Transportation Planning Division.
The UPNCTS team included the Director, Dr. Jun T. Castro, and the heads of the different laboratories at the center, Dr. John Justine S. Villar, Head of the Inclusive Transport Group and the ITS Laboratory, Dr. Sandy Mae A. Gaspay, Head of Traffic Engineering and Management Group, Dr. Karl N. Vergel of the Transportation, Environment and Energy Group, and Engr. Sheila Flor D. Javier, Head of the Training Group.
The DOTr officials were given a comprehensive overview of the ongoing research projects at the center, and were also briefed on the completed projects that are now ready for deployment, such as locally-developed software applications for road and maritime transportation. T4Cast and LOCALSIM, for example, are sophisticated tools that can optimize road transportation management. NAVIS and PAROLA, on the other hand, are advanced systems that enable efficient and safe maritime transportation operations. These software applications have already been tested and proven effective in various pilot projects, and the officials expressed their eagerness to integrate them into the Department’s operations and enhance real-world and practical applications.
The officials were likewise introduced to the CREATE Project, which is a pioneering initiative that aims to reduce the number of road crashes in the Philippines. The system being developed in the Project utilizes advanced data analytics and machine learning algorithms to analyze road crash data and identify high-risk areas. By providing evidence-based recommendations and solutions, CREATE can help the Department prioritize its road safety interventions and resources, and ultimately save lives.
The visit was seen as a positive step towards strengthening the relationship between the DOTr and UPNCTS and fostering collaboration between the two organizations. The officials expressed their intention for continuous dialogue and explore opportunities for future collaboration.
In conclusion, the visit of the DOTr to the UPNCTS was a productive and valuable experience for both parties. It provided an opportunity for the DOTr officials to learn about the cutting-edge research being done at UPNCTS, as well as explore potential collaborations to address transportation challenges facing the Philippines.
