ALABADO...
Again the public utility drivers and operators are acting against the public interest just like when they protest against any increases in the traffic violation fees. They always cite that this will lead to more corruption. Let us face it, drivers love corrupt traffic cops because they will just pay them off to get away from the traffic citation tickets. Walang tatanggap kung walang naglalagay. Or maybe, drivers know that they will really be cited for traffic violations because they do not really know the traffic rules and regulations so let us keep it affordable so they can commit violation intentionally or ignorantly more often.
The militant transportation groups have always claimed that they represent the masses by resisting fuel hikes and at the same time demanding for higher fares but they merely represent their own sector. As I have stated in my previous article, by demanding that the government be lenient on their operations these tens of thousands of drivers and operators of jeepneys, buses, van, taxis and tricycles are not serving the interests of the hundreds of thousands if not millions of commuters. Rather it should be the opposite, higher standards on driving, registration, vehicle maintenance and others must be imposed on them because they have taken the responsibility of providing for public transportation for the commuters.
It is high time that local government units provide our commuters with public utility drivers who can drive competently and safely. This additional requirement above the regular drivers’ license is a must if we want to upgrade traffic discipline and road safety amongst our public utility drivers. Drivers certificates must not only be a requirement for PUV drivers but should include drivers of trucks, tricycle, vans for hire, school buses – all those involved in transporting the public and large vehicles.
If our drivers and operators cannot meet the high standards on road safety and discipline for the safety of our commuters then maybe it is time for them to shift to another business. Driving for the public is a service and not a business. rpalabado@ gmail.com