The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) plans to roll out an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered traffic signal system that uses video detectors to help ease congestion across Metro Manila.
According to the state-owned Philippine News Agency, MMDA Chair Romando Artes said in a press conference that this upgrade will shift traffic detection from the current ground loop sensors to video detection.
“As we phase in the adaptive signaling system, this innovation represents a major step towards ensuring smooth traffic flow, minimizing road crashes, and optimizing efficiency,” Artes said.
The agency is aiming to install the new AI system by next year.
The MMDA’s Traffic Engineering Center explained that video-based AI traffic signals have several advantages. Unlike older sensors embedded in the road, the video detectors are less likely to get damaged by roadworks, bad weather, or tampering.
They can also capture more data about passing vehicles, including speed, direction, and license plate numbers.
Artes noted that the old system didn’t work well with traffic signal countdown timers. This sometimes encouraged drivers to speed through intersections and beat the red light.
Just last week, the MMDA removed countdown timers at 96 intersections along major Metro Manila roads and replaced them with adaptive signals that rely on sensors instead.
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