Ray Macalalag

  • Does an ‘E’ on E-Trike mean exclusion?

    Does an ‘E’ on E-Trike mean exclusion?

    3–5 minutes

    The ban on electric bicycles and tricycles from national highways raises serious concerns about the Department of Transportation’s motives and clarity. While branded as a safety measure, this policy neglects the broader issues of urban mobility and reveals systemic failures in public transport, leaving low-income commuters disadvantaged.

  • The road safety blueprint is out; have your say

    The road safety blueprint is out; have your say

    3–5 minutes

    This content is originally published in Daily Guardian, November 17, 2025 issue and online in their website. On three consecutive days, just prior to the National Day of Remembrance of Road Traffic Victims, Survivors, and Families, the draft Western Visayas Road Safety Action Plan (WVRSAP) 2026-2028 was officially released. The Department of Economy, Planning, and…

  • Infrastructure development in the next three years

    Infrastructure development in the next three years

    3–5 minutes

    The updated Western Visayas Regional Development Plan emphasizes holistic infrastructure development, connecting lives and boosting opportunities. With substantial investments in transport, digital connectivity, and social infrastructure, the region is poised for transformative growth. An integrated and collaborative approach will ensure a resilient and prosperous future for all.

  • Modernization left us stranded

    Modernization left us stranded

    3–5 minutes

    The PUVMP is a grand illusion, promising a modern transport revolution but delivering chaos instead. Commuters remain hostages to a broken system marred by rising costs and mismanagement. Unless grassroots voices are prioritized, mobility will continue to be a privilege for the few, not a right for all.

  • Collaterals of Corruption

    Collaterals of Corruption

    3–5 minutes

    Corruption in the Philippines’ infrastructure projects is not just financial theft. It is a betrayal of safety and trust. From ghost projects to overpriced essentials, the public’s outrage is boiling over. Public trust is eroding day by day and the burden is borne only by some who are simply accessories to this grand scheme of…

  • Civil engineers with integrity, dedication, and conscience

    Civil engineers with integrity, dedication, and conscience

    3–5 minutes

    The flood control crisis reveals a troubling landscape of corruption within civil engineering, with PHP545 million spent on 60 “ghost” projects. However, not all engineers are corrupt; many are dedicated to genuine public service. Upholding integrity, dedication, and conscience is vital for restoring trust and delivering impactful projects that safeguard lives and communities.

  • Attention economy: Truth in the age of reels

    Attention economy: Truth in the age of reels

    3–5 minutes

    The attention economy is a ruthless arena where truth is trumped by virality, undermining civic integrity and exploiting human vulnerabilities. In the Philippines, as social media embeds more deeply, misinformation festers. Experts must adapt, using engaging formats to reclaim truth and combat the erosion of trust.

  • LinK4All: linking all for a safer, sustainable mobility future

    LinK4All: linking all for a safer, sustainable mobility future

    3–5 minutes

    The recent LinK4All Summit Workshops highlighted the critical need for young people to actively participate in road safety discussions, equipping them with vital knowledge and confidence. By fostering informed dialogue among diverse stakeholders, LinK4All aims to develop an inclusive Western Visayas Road Safety Action Plan that ensures their voices lead to meaningful change in mobility.

  • Clarity over Complexity in Development

    Clarity over Complexity in Development

    3–5 minutes

    As July ends, reflection paves the way for meaningful progress in development. Amid the President’s State of the Nation Address, insights gained from the RDI Network Exchange emphasize the importance of clear objectives in monitoring and evaluation. Embracing focused goals will foster effective change, allowing for impactful outcomes despite challenges.

  • Road crashes are never an accident, stop calling it one

    Road crashes are never an accident, stop calling it one

    2–4 minutes

    Labeling road crashes as “accidents” is a disservice to victims and society. This term softens accountability for reckless drivers and poor infrastructure design. By reframing these events as preventable crashes, we can foster urgency for change, demand safer roads, and prioritize prevention over complacency. Language matters; it drives action and accountability.