BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – The ongoing dry run of the newly installed smart traffic signal lights in the central business district is aimed at collecting traffic data and fine-tuning the system before its full implementation.

Management Information and Technology Division (MITD) Head Francis Camarao said the testing phase is necessary to gather accurate information on vehicle volume, traffic movement, and peak-hour patterns.

The data will be used to properly calibrate the traffic signal timing and controllers.

City Engineer Richard Lardizabal appealed for the public’s patience and understanding as the city completes the testing process.

“We are aware of the impact of the experimentation on current traffic conditions, and we appeal to the public for understanding as we endeavor to make this technology work effectively,” Lardizabal said.

He said the dry run will continue until the end of the month to collect sufficient and accurate traffic count data needed to properly program the system.

After the initial testing period, another round of validation will be conducted before the city fully activates the sensor-based traffic signal and pedestrian controller system.

The P10-million project covers the U-Shape Overpass, Y-Shape Overpass, and Lower Session Road near the Maharlika Livelihood Complex.

It includes the installation of upgraded smart traffic signals that will eventually be integrated with the city’s Smart City Command Center for real-time traffic monitoring and management.

The project also replaced aging and damaged traffic signal lights with new sensor-based units.

Once fully operational, the system is expected to improve traffic flow, reduce congestion, and enhance pedestrian safety in one of Baguio City’s busiest areas. — Aileen P. Refuerzo