Poe to gov’t: Allow motorcycle back-riding for family members to lessen stranded passengers

By JOHN CARLO M. CAHINHINAN

Senate Committee on Public Service chair Grace Poe said allowing back riding on motorcycles for family members will help reduce stranded passengers amid the limited public transportation due to the coronavirus pandemic.

“Ang pag-angkas sa motorsiklo ay sariling paraan ng ating mga kababayan para makarating sa trabaho at makapaghanapbuhay para sa kanilang pamilya. Malaking kabawasan na ito sa mga stranded na pasahero na araw-araw ay hirap makasakay,” said Poe.

Poe explained that motorcycles have become part of the country’s road network as a viable means of transport for business, work or personal needs, adding that two-wheeled vehicle not only ferries people to work but are also used for deliveries, which have helped people get connected and helped some businesses survive amid the pandemic.

From the viewpoint of shielding the virus, Poe stressed that it would be safer for a spouse to ride with her partner or other family members than to walk, take a tricycle or other public transportation, which could expose her to infection.

But Poe was quick to add that riders “must strictly adhere to health and safety protocols,” including existing policies such as wearing helmets, to avoid the spread of the COVID-19 infection.

She added that motorcycle riders should keep a copy of their IDs and relevant documents ready as proof when flagged down by enforcers.

Even before the quarantine period, Poe said millions of Filipinos have invested in motorcycles as a means of transportation that is fast and convenient.

She said families are expecting this vehicle could be of use to them through this transition period as they return to work or go out for their essentials.

“Nakakapanlumo na makita ang magkapamilya na sa pagpasok sa trabaho, ‘yung isa ay nasa motorsiklo at ‘yung isa ay naglalakad dahil bawal ang angkas,” Poe said.

Poe said during rush hours, commuters still crowd loading areas or endure long lines in terminals, showing the inadequacy of public transport despite the deployment of several buses and modernized jeepneys.

“Not all routes, including non-major routes, are serviced by these buses and jeepneys forcing commuters to walk to get to the loading stations in major highways,” she said.

Source: Latest Politics News Today (Politics.com.ph)