Naga launches AI-driven traffic signal system

By Jason B. Neola

IN a move to enhance traffic management and road safety, Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino and Mayor Nelson Legacion jointly switched on the most advanced traffic signal system in the Bicol Region on March 7, 2025.

The newly-installed state-of-the-art traffic lights at the intersection of Sol Street and Almeda Highway in Barangay Concepcion Grande are expected to significantly improve traffic flow in the area.

The traffic signal system, funded by the Department of Transportation (DOTr) through the efforts of Senator Tolentino, is one of the most modern in the country. Naga was among eight local government units (LGUs) selected to benefit from this ground-breaking technology, designed to ease congestion and improve pedestrian safety.

“This cutting-edge traffic signal will not only improve traffic management but also promote road discipline and safety. Technology has the power to reduce congestion, and we are proud that Naga City is now at the forefront of modern traffic solutions,” Senator Tolentino said during the switching ceremony.

The newly-installed system uses artificial intelligence (AI) to automatically detect which road carries a higher volume of vehicles. Once determined, the system changes the signal light to green while holding red on the less congested road, thus ensuring a smoother flow of vehicles. The AI is supported by high-definition cameras placed at the intersections.

According to Public Safety Office Executive Director Renne Gumba, the traffic lights are also equipped with a pedestrian push button. This feature allows pedestrians to activate the red light, giving them a safer crossing opportunity.

Mayor Nelson Legacion expressed gratitude to Senator Tolentino and the DOTr for making the project possible. “Naga is fortunate to be one of the few cities in the country to acquire this advanced traffic light system. It will surely improve the road efficiency in our area and make crossing safer for our pedestrians,” Legacion said.

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in traffic management is a growing trend globally. Leading cities around the world are now leveraging AI technology to optimize traffic flow, reduce congestion, and minimize vehicle emissions. For instance, Google’s Project Green Light uses AI to optimize traffic light timing, resulting in reduced traffic congestion and lower carbon emissions. Similarly, researchers at Aston University have developed an AI system capable of reading live camera footage to adapt traffic signals in real-time, significantly minimizing congestion.

The site for the newly installed traffic light system, located near Villa Grande Elementary School, was carefully chosen to address heavy traffic during peak hours. With this advanced system in place, it is expected that both vehicular and pedestrian movement in the area will be greatly improved.

Present during the switching ceremony were Police Col. Erwin Rebellon, city director of the Naga City Police Office; Land Transportation Office (LTO) Naga Chief Grace Rojas; Highway Patrol Group personnel, faculty members of the Villa Grande Elementary Schools, and the barangay officials of Concepcion Grande headed by Punong Barangay Jerrold Rito.

Senator Tolentino assured the city of his continued support in bringing modern infrastructure and technology-driven solutions to enhance public services. “This AI-driven traffic light system is just the beginning of what we can achieve when we harness technology for the public good,” Tolentino added.

With this development, Naga now sets a high standard in the Bicol Region for modernizing traffic management, paving the way for smarter and more efficient road networks.