[WATCH] 2 cities, 2 provinces, 1 crisis: Transport on the brink

How do local candidates in Manila, Marikina, Cavite, and Bulacan plan to address the poor state of transportation in their localities?

MANILA, Philippines – Transportation was a consistent issue in Rappler’s four election kapihans and interviews in Manila, Marikina, Cavite, and Bulacan held since January 2025. 

In the four cities and provinces we visited, almost every question raised by the participants revolved around how frustrated and concerned locals were with their local transportation system and traffic situations, which affect their daily lives.

“Instead of going home in [just] a few minutes, [our commute] takes several hours because of the traffic,” said one participant in the Make Cavite Liveable Elections Kapihan. 

According to some candidates, the answer lies in infrastructure and local traffic regulations. Some advocated for active transportation alternatives, while others said there needs to be behavioral change.

Watch this video to see how some local election candidates responded to voters’ questions on traffic infrastructure issues, road blockages and constructions, poor traffic conditions, and the lack of reliable mass transit.

What does the traffic and transport situation look like in your area? Head to the Rappler Communities app and share your thoughts. Let’s put your local community issues at the center of the 2025 Philippine midterm elections. – Rappler.com