February 2009 Archives

By Hector Olympus Contributor It was in the early years of the new millennium when motorcycles started to swarm over the streets of Metro Manila. I would assume that whoever was the brainchild in promoting XRMs here in the county would have already earned a big bonus. But this happened as people opted to reduce their cost of spending in transportation. Thus the use of small motorcycles became a hit, particularly to male workers and company messengers. Rider friends told me that they save a lot since they started using motorcycles. Also, it was easier to wade through traffic using motorcycles. I have seen more people buying motorcycles. Dealers now make it easier for consumers to buy a unit under good credit terms. If my taxi driver-friend is correct, you can now purchase and get that unit in one day if you’re ready to pay P10,000 as downpayment. Also, I was told motorcycle dealers do not do credit investigations. They only ask for a few documents as proof of income. So with the increase of riders in Metro Manila comes the increase in motorcycle-related accidents. This is very alarming because in TV morning shows, they usually report motorcycle accidents. I have a high school classmate who was killed in a motorcycle accident. She was in her twenties. Her husband who was driving survived but was paralyzed. An officemate once told me, "Hindi na ako gagamit ng sasakyang na may dalawang gulong. Napaka-delikado. Isang maliit na bato lang ang katapat niyan, aksidente ang tuloy [I don’t want to use any vehicle with two wheels. It’s risky. A rock on the road can lead to an accident]." I agree. In 2008, road authorities have increased their regulations by requiring motorcycle riders to wear helmets and limiting passengers to two. But seems this is not enough because accidents continue to happen. Here are some of my thoughts about motorcycles in the country. I believe motorbike riders should be re-oriented on responsible driving. I have seen riders who speed up and race pass cars and jeepneys. Some riders also violate road regulations such as wearing the proper helmet. I remember one comment, "Sa ulo dapat sinusuot ang helmet, hindi sa siko [You use your helmets to protect your head not your elbow]." I also see a lot of overloaded motorcycles—some carrying up to 4 passengers. Amazing. Is it the Land Transportation Office imposing regulations on motorcycle drivers? I hope they can ensure that licensed applicants are aware of the road regulations. I see a lot of young people (below 18 years old), especially in the provinces who ride motorcycles. Sadly, when they figure in an accident, there seems to be some trouble implementing road regulations. I hope officials don’t take bribes in exchange for a driver’s license. The MMDA should also tighten their watch on violators. Violators should be apprehended. It doesn’t matter who they are. Violators should not be tolerated. There should be a dedicated motorcycle lane in Metro Manila. It may be costly. But if it means saving lives, then it is a must. You can also visit the author's blog at http://sonofpriam.blogspot.com.