Asian Development Bank (ADP) stated in a 2022 report that the City of Baguio has seen an increase in urbanization and tourism in the past years, which resulted in a surge in the number of vehicles navigating its congested streets. Hence, locals and students now have to cope with traffic congestion daily.
Going to school, Den Alvarez, a student from Saint Louis University shared her experience and adjustments that she made to avoid the traffic whenever she went to school or town.
“I need to wake up earlier than usual just to beat the traffic and to ensure that I can reach my classes on time. It’s tiring and stressful, especially during peak hours,” said Den Alvarez, thinking about what she encountered every morning.
“On weekends, I would rather stay at home rather than spend my time outside being stuck in traffic because of the tourists that visit here,” she added.
The increasing influx of tourists and the subsequent weekly exodus of visitors from Baguio City has presented a significant challenge for local authorities in managing traffic. In a Facebook post by the Baguio City Public Information Office, Mayor Benjamin Magalong acknowledges the urgency of finding effective solutions to address the issue given the pandemic-related restrictions’ gradual easing.
“Traffic experts from the Baguio City Police Office (BCPO) Traffic Enforcement Unit and the City Engineering Office - Transportation Management Division are working diligently to implement measures and adjust existing strategies to alleviate congestion and ensure smooth traffic flow,” he said.
Air Pollution’s Threat
Slow-moving traffic not only tests the patience of drivers and pedestrians but also contributes significantly to air pollution. According to the Baguio Air quality index (AQI) forecast conducted by IQAir, the presence of particulate matter, nitrogen oxide, and carbon monoxide in the atmosphere are caused by the vehicles crawling along the roads of the city.
The degradation of air quality due to traffic emissions also has far-reaching implications for the city's biodiversity. A national geographic’s article about air pollution discussed that the heightened levels of air pollution can disrupt the delicate ecological balance, leading to reduced plant productivity, diminished pollination and adverse effects on wildlife. Therefore, as the city's natural habitats deteriorate, the rich biodiversity that once thrived around the place faces an uncertain future.
"As an advocate for preserving our local biodiversity, witnessing the impact of traffic-induced air pollution is disheartening. We must recognize the urgent need to address this issue to safeguard the diverse species that call our city their home," said Grace Mendoza, a student environment advocate.
Mendoza urges the local government of Baguio City to at least come up with a long-term and effective plan to decrease the traffic congestionin the city.
Moreover, according to an article from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), this toxic blend poses a grave threat to the health of the residents, particularly vulnerable groups like children and the elderly, as their bodies are less capable of compensating for the effects. The more they are exposed to the city’s polluted air, the more chances that they can exacerbate respiratory conditions and weaken their overall health.
“Ang traffic kasi kaya nahihirapan na rin ako sa pagpunta ng town tapos makikita mo pa yung mga usok galing sa mga sasakyan. Mas gugustuhin ko nalang mag-stay dito sa bahay kaysa langhapin yung mga usok,” Jesilyn Gonzaga, a Baguio resident, uttered with annoyance and worry evident in her tone.
“Kapag naman lalabas ako kasama mga apo ko ay talagang dapat na naka-face mask sila para na rin hindi nila ganun malanghap yung usok na galing sa mga sasakyan.” she added.
Harnessing Technology
In an effort to ease traffic congestion in the city of Baguio, a web application that provides motorists with real-time traffic information has been developed. The new tool, launched by the Management Information and Technology Division (MITD) of the City Mayor's Office on Feb. 24, aims to ease traffic woes in the city.
The online traffic assistance website, which can be accessed at https://alternateroutes.baguio.gov.ph, provides motorists with useful information by identifying alternate routes that can help them avoid clogged highways and get to their destinations more quickly. In addition, it sends information when a road is inaccessible so that drivers may plan their routes appropriately.
Aside from traffic updates, the application also provides commuters with helpful information. It has evolved into a personal assistant, offering a seamless experience that takes the stress out of commuting. With just a few taps, users can find the locations of Public Utility Jeepney (PUJ) terminals in the city, as well as details on various traffic rules and regulations enforced, such as number coding, designated motorcycle routes and truck ban schedules.
As Baguio City continues to grapple with the challenges of traffic congestion, initiatives like the online traffic assistance represent a step forward in improving the overall traffic experience of residents and visitors alike. By leveraging technology and incorporating sustainable transportation systems, Baguio aims to establish a comprehensive framework that will transform the city's transportation landscape and improve overall mobility for residents and tourists alike.
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