If you grew up watching movies, listening to stories from elders, or even just scrolling through social media today, chances are you’ve already seen the warnings: “It’s Friday the 13th Today! ”
And on this day, some people refuse to travel, opting instead to stay home.
Honestly? I get it.
Superstition has a funny way of sneaking into our heads, even when we don’t fully believe in it. You might say you’re not superstitious… but when something goes wrong on a Friday the 13th… well… that’s enough to make anyone pause and think.
So, is it really bad luck to be driving today—especially here in Davao City?
Or is Friday the 13th just another Friday, made scarier by stories we’ve heard over and over again?
Where Did Friday the 13th Even Come From?
The fear of Friday the 13th didn’t start here in the Philippines.
It’s a Western superstition that somehow became global—thanks to books, horror films, and pop culture.
Friday itself has long been considered unlucky in some traditions.
The number 13?
Also branded as “bad.”
Combine the two, and suddenly you have a date that feels cursed.
But here’s the thing:
There’s no solid evidence that Friday the 13th is more dangerous on the road than any other day.
In fact, some studies from other countries suggest the opposite—people tend to drive more carefully because they’re extra aware.
So if accidents happen today, it’s not because the date is unlucky.
It’s because… well, accidents happen every day.
Driving in Davao City: The Real Risks Are Familiar
Let’s be honest.
If you’ve driven in Davao long enough, you already know the real dangers on the road—and none of them involve the number 13.
Ok… maybe on the rare occasion that a license plate number or a road marker says 13… ugh… there I go again, getting lost in the details. Anyay… the real dangers really come from:
- the sudden rain that turns roads slippery.
- the motorcycle that appears out of nowhere.
- the jeepney that stops abruptly.
- the driver who’s in a hurry, distracted, tired, or angry.
Friday or not, 13th or not, these are the things that actually cause accidents.
And on a Friday specifically?
People are rushing home, some are tired after a long week while others are already thinking about the weekend.
That combination matters far more than superstition.
Why Friday the 13th Feels More Dangerous
Psychology plays a big role here.
When we expect something bad to happen, we notice every small negative event more intensely.
A stalled engine.
A close call.
A sudden brake.
On a normal day, we shrug it off. On Friday the 13th, we attach meaning to it.
Our brains love patterns—even when they’re not real.
So when someone says, “Na-aksidente kasi Friday the 13th,” what they’re really saying is:
“An accident happened, and we needed a reason that feels bigger than chance.”
So… Should You Be Afraid to Drive Today?
No.
Should you be more mindful?
Absolutely—and not because it’s Friday the 13th.
You should be mindful because:
- You’re driving a machine that can hurt people.
- You’re sharing the road with humans who make mistakes.
- You want to arrive home safely.
If Friday the 13th reminds you to slow down, focus, and respect the road, then maybe it’s not unlucky at all.
Maybe it’s just a reminder.
Instead of fearing the date, I prefer to flip the mindset.
What if Friday the 13th becomes a personal safety check day?
A day where you drive a little slower.
A day where you let that aggressive driver pass.
A day where you double-check your helmet, seatbelt, or mirrors.
If anything, today is a good day to be intentional on the road.
And on that note…
Here are Some Road Safety Reminders for Drivers in Davao City
1. Slow down, especially in wet conditions – Davao rain can come suddenly. Wet roads reduce traction fast.
2. Leave earlier than usual – Rushing causes bad decisions. Extra time gives you breathing room.
3. Keep your distance – Tailgating removes your reaction time. Space saves lives.
4. Avoid distractions – One glance at your phone is all it takes. The message can wait.
5. Expect motorcycles everywhere – Always assume there’s a rider in your blind spot.
6. Use signals properly – Signals aren’t suggestions. They’re communication tools.
7. Don’t drive angry or tired – Emotions affect judgment more than people realize.
8. Check brakes and tires regularly – Basic maintenance prevents sudden failures.
9. Respect pedestrian crossings – Someone’s parent, child, or partner is crossing that street.
10. Wear proper safety gear – Helmet, seatbelt—non-negotiable, always.
11. Avoid unnecessary overtaking – Saving a few seconds isn’t worth the risk.
12. Be extra cautious at night – Visibility drops. Reaction time matters more.
13. Assume others may make mistakes – Defensive driving saves you from someone else’s error.
14. Stay calm in traffic – Stress leads to poor judgment and road rage.
15. If unsure, don’t force it – When in doubt—slow down, stop, or wait.
Friday the 13th isn’t dangerous because of bad luck.
Driving is dangerous when we forget how serious it is.
So if you’re on the road today here in Davao City—whether by car, motorcycle, or even bicycle—don’t fear the date.
Just respect the road, yourself, and others.
Let today be a reminder that getting home safely is never about luck.
It’s about awareness.
It’s about patience.
It’s about choosing safety—every single day. And from your friends at Biyernes, Drive safe.
PS. Today is the only Friday the 13th for this year which is rare as most years have 2 or three Fridays the 13th.
