Advocates hold forum for trike drivers, operators
The Madrigal Foundation headed by Therese Madrigal with its partners on Nov. 22 had a successful launch of “Para Kay Manong Toda,” an advocacy campaign to help tricycle drives alleviate their lives by being heard through forums, seminars and press conference. Invited were government officials and private sectors as panelists and speakers. The Foundation is hoping that at least some of their needs will be heard by means of these awareness programs.
Two panel discussions have been held with topics ranging from environment to wellness. Speakers include Shariff Ibrahim, an advocate; Migui Moreno, actor and businessman; Mario Batuigas, former radio broadcaster and now in online broadcast, all three are running for public office; Bong Quiroga, Business Chamber president; Rey Castro, barangay captain at Santa Maria, Bulacan, TODA; Usec. Rose Bistoyong, Climate Change Council; Eva Lisa Adoremos, Manong Toda; and Therese Madrigal.
Madrigal is overwhelmed with the outcome. Attendees came even from other countries just to attend the event and more from the local government units. The event is just the start and will be touring nationwide to support trike drivers and operators.
The event was moderated by PTV anchor Emelie Katigbak and Manila Times business writer Grace Bondad Nicolas.
The that aids the well being of the marginalized tricycle drivers. Most of the tricycle drivers are head of the family and works seven times a week to support their loved ones without health insurance and most doesn’t received benefits from the government. These modern day heroes are exposed to pollution and some environmental hazards everyday.
One of the programs under “Para Kay Manong Toda” is to help drivers focus on their working and medical conditions they can continue helping their families and society as well as giving reliable transportation to those in need. The foundation believes that information dissemination is one way to be heard.
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