AI-assisted traffic light system installed at SRP

CEBU, Philippines — One of Cebu City’s joint venture partners at South Road Properties (SRP) has installed a traffic light system that will use artificial intelligence (AI) in its operations starting mid-February of this year.

Filinvest Land, Inc. (FLI) already installed the facility along the T-junction of Cebu South Coastal Road with El Pardo St., the south border of City di Mare (CdM), its 40-hectare JV project with the Cebu City Government.

The traffic lights had a test run a few days before the Sinulog 2024 as disclosed by Engr. Gwen Sala, FLI assistant general manager for CdM via Sugboanon channel.

Sala described the traffic light system as a smart system that detects the volume of traffic.

“It’s an adoptive (system). Its sensor based. It’s smart. So, it detects the volume of traffic,” she said, explaining that the data allows a seamless flow of traffic.

“Siya (the AI) mao na ang mo-program on that specific intersection,” Sala added, noting that the system will determine enough time for vehicles to flow along the junction.

It is projected to work in a way that the flow along the main thoroughfare will not be impeded when the lights switch the flow to allow some vehicles to turn left from the south and from west of the intersection accordingly.

“That project is really to improve the connectivity and accessibility in the area, and ensure the safety of the motorists and pedestrians,” Sala said while also saying that the system has a pedestrian component.

The intersection will serve clients of city offices located in the area along with CdM residents at the Amalfi and Sanremo Oasis medium-rise residential condominiums and iL Corso lifestyle mall.

The control system of the AI-aided traffic lights is also set up at Cebu City Transportation Office, according to FLI GM for the Visayas, John Paul Escario.

Just two weeks ago, City Councilor Rey Gealon, who also chairs the Traffic Management Committee, floated the idea through a resolution in the City Council to use AI in the management of vehicular traffic in the city and ensure seamless flow of emergency vehicles.

“The use of AI would greatly benefit Filipinos, in general, and Cebuanos, in particular, as it would improve the traffic situation and would save time, allowing for smoother transportation,” Gealon said in his resolution.

Gealon noted technology now allows the extensive application of AI, which is emerging as a significant benefit in diverse sectors.

Meanwhile, FLI also made a test run of three coaster-size buses.

They offered free rides going to SRP and back in yesterday’s Sinulog 2024.

FLI, a platinum sponsor of Sinulog sa Sugbo Philippines 2024, also provided its civic center at CdM as venue for Sinulog activities for the second straight year.