Traffic congestion is a persistent urban transportation problem that imposes substantial economic losses through travel delays, increased fuel consumption, and reduced productivity. This study examines the relationship between traffic volume and economic loss resulting from traffic delays along President Jose P. Laurel Highway, a major arterial corridor in Lipa City, Batangas. Using one week of peak-hour field observations, data were collected on vehicle volume, average delay per vehicle, and additional fuel consumption. Economic losses were estimated using standard transportation economics approaches, including the Value of Time (VOT) method and fuel cost valuation. Pearson correlation and simple linear regression analyses were employed to quantify the relationship between traffic volume and congestion-related economic losses. The results reveal a strong and statistically significant positive relationship between traffic volume and economic loss, with delay duration identified as the primary contributor to congestion costs. Comparative analysis further shows that PM peak periods generate higher marginal economic losses than AM peak periods, reflecting intensified end-of-day travel demand. These findings demonstrate that traffic congestion along President Jose P. Laurel Highway is not merely an operational concern but a significant economic burden. The study provides empirical evidence to support targeted traffic management measures, infrastructure improvements, and demand management strategies aimed at reducing congestion-related economic losses in Lipa City.
Cuya et al. (Sat,) studied this question.