In response to the alarming number of road-related deaths and accidents both globally and locally, Sen. Mark Villar has filed a bill seeking to incorporate road safety education into the K to 12 curriculum.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), road crashes claim 1.19 million lives each year worldwide. In the Philippines, a growing number of traumatic and fatal road incidents—many involving minors—have drawn widespread concern on social media and in communities.

“Nakakabahala at nakakatakot po ang mga kaso ng mga insidente sa ating mga kalsada ngayong taon, napakarami na po ang mga pamilyang nawalan ng tatay, nanay, at pati na rin mga anak,” Senator Villar said, stressing the urgency of addressing road safety through education.

Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) shows a significant portion of road crashes involve children and teenagers. Villar believes this trend highlights the need for early education on road discipline, safe driving practices, and responsible road use.

“Marami po sa mga kasong ito ay may kabilang na kabataan; kaya naisip ko po na mas paigtingin dapat ang road safety na kung saan ituturo po ito sa lahat ng paaralan,” he added.

The senator emphasized that beyond policy enforcement, instilling proper road behavior starts with education. He sees schools as a vital platform to promote discipline and prevent accidents before they occur.

This initiative is part of Villar’s broader effort to strengthen road safety measures in the Philippines and promote a culture of safety, especially among the youth.