The Department of Transportation (DOTr) said on Friday, January 19, that it will fast-track its road transportation infrastructure projects.

The statement was made following a study by the TomTom Traffic Index showing Metro Manila is leading the ranking on the worst traffic among 387 metro areas in the world in 2023.

"Our ongoing road transport infrastructure projects are directed at improving commuter experience while addressing worsening traffic in highly urbanized areas," Transportation Secretary Jaime J. Bautista said.

Bautista said Metro Manila's ranking in world traffic poses a challenge not just for DOTr but for other concerned government agencies in finding solutions to the country's traffic problems.

As a response, the Transportation Secretary assured the public that the agency would fast-track its projects.

"We will fast track road projects while collaborating with appropriate agencies with the help of the private sector," he said.