‘Win-win’ transport solution sought by Go

Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go on Thursday appealed to all concerned to listen to the opinions and suggestions of motorcycle riders, riding public and safety experts to arrive at a win-win solution while there is a lack of options in mass transportation while the country battles the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) crisis.

“I appeal to everyone, let us listen to the sentiments of the riders and riding public and the opinions of safety experts regarding the health and safety measures we need to implement. Let’s give Filipinos an effective solution and not added inconvenience,” the lawmaker said in a statement.

Go, himself a motorcycle enthusiast, added that he understands the plight of commuters who struggles to get around the metro with the limited available modes of transportation, reason is for the allowing of motorcycle back-riding.

The National Task Force Against COVID-19 (NTF COVID-19) earlier this week greenlighted the back-riding in motorcycles but only for those who can provide proof that they are married couples or common-law partners and with the condition that they install protective barriers as an added precaution against the spread of the virus.

A 19 July deadline was set by the NTF COVID-19 and Joint Task Force COVID Shield (JTF CV Shield) for motorcycle rides to comply with the use of prescribed barriers for their backriding spouses or common-law partners with only the two approved designs submitted by the Bohol Provincial Government and ride-hailing company Angkas permitted.

Apart from the barriers, back-riding couples must also present proof of marriage or if they are living under the same roof.

“As one who also rides motorcycles, I understand the importance of ensuring that whatever safety measures our government requires for back-riding also translates to safety on the road. The design has to be sturdy and safe enough so as not to cause any accidents or the further spread of the disease,” Go noted.

The senator then reminded the public that regardless of the mode of transport they opt to use to get around, it should only be for essential travels.