MMDA, LTO ink rider academy pact

TO address the rising cases of motorcycle crashes and promote better discipline among riders, the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has opened an academy in Pasig City in collaboration with the Land Transportation Office (LTO).

The MMDA said motorcycle crashes have increased in the National Capital Region from January to March this year, with 4,068 cases reported thus far.

In 2022, authorities documented a total of 26, 599 road motorcycle-related mishaps—up from 31, 186 the previous year.

MMDA chairman Romando Artes signed an agreement with the LTO for the accreditation of the MMDA Motorcycle Riding Academy and its facilities as a Practical Driving Examination Center.

Under the agreement, riders enrolled in the academy must be able to perform the following motorcycle maneuvers: serpentine maneuver, left turn and stop in the box, cone weave and U-turn, and acceleration and sudden braking.

The academy will also have interconnection with the Land Transportation Management System (LTMS). The LTO will assign a driver’s skills rater to conduct a practical driving examination. The training will be administered for free, according to the agreement.

The academy provides basic knowledge on motorcycle handling and operation, emphasizing safe riding practices. It also offers free training to individuals aged 17 and older, accommodating 100 participants per batch.