By Diana Tomale, Davao Today Intern
Davao City – City Councilor Bernard Al-ag said he is set to propose new routes for jeepneys and mini shuttle buses to provide transportation in areas where there are no public vehicles.
He cited a new highway in Calinan passing through Brgy. Talandang in Tugbok and Brgy. Magtuod in Maa. “The highway is good but only single motorcycles and private motorists use it because there are no jeepneys plying the road,” he said.
He said his proposal seeks to discourage the operation of “habal-habal” (modified motorcycle meant to accommodate more than two riders) in these areas.
Al-ag also cited the highway from Toril to Calinan passing through Mulig where only modified motorcycles use it.
Al-ag said that they wanted to put new routes in these areas to provide legal transportation to the residents of these areas.
“We need to impose this because we are looking after public safety. Although there will be those who will lose their income because of this, but we are looking out for what is best for the safety of the riding public,” Al-ag said.
Al-ag said that his proposal will “provide efficient, reliable and safe public transportation for the commuters.”
There are 7,278 jeepneys/Filcab units in Davao City plying in 131 routes. In 2006, an estimated 14,000 modified motorcycle ply in the city. (davaotoday.com)
