President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has directed authorities to ensure accountability for the recent fatal vehicular accidents at NAIA Terminal 1 and the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), while also calling for urgent reforms in the country's transportation system.
In a video message posted on his official Facebook page on Monday, Marcos extended his condolences to the families of those who died or were injured in the accidents at the SCTEX toll plaza and NAIA Terminal 1.
"Ten lives were lost in a devastating collision in Tarlac. Days later, two more—one of them a child—were taken in a tragic accident at the airport. These incidents should never have happened," said Marcos.
"And now, we will ensure they never happen again," he added.
Marcos stated that he had instructed Transport Secretary Vince Dizon to take decisive action—to identify and hold accountable those responsible for the incidents, and to implement reforms that will help prevent similar tragedies from happening again.
He also outlined several measures that the administration is set to implement, including a comprehensive review of the driver licensing system to ensure that only qualified, capable, and responsible individuals—whether operating public or private vehicles—are allowed on the roads.
In addition, the government will launch a nationwide audit of bus operators, with clear penalties for those who fail to comply with safety and maintenance standards.
Marcos likewise directed the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to take firm action against "unsafe and exploitative" labor practices in the transport sector, stressing that fatigue, excessive hours, and quota-driven pressure should never compromise public safety.
The President underscored the urgency of reforms, declaring that while sympathy is important, it must be matched with resolve. "These lives will not be lost in vain,” he affirmed.
"We will make the changes that need to be made. We will demand accountability where it is due. And we will build a transport system that truly protects Filipino people," he added.
