It seems that the call for action to #MakeMarilaqueSafeAgain is already bearing its fruits as the Philippine National Police – Highway Patrol Group (PNP – HPG), in cooperation with the local government unit of Tanay, and the Land Transportation Office (LTO) conducted “Operation: Marilaque Rider” this past weekend.
The joint operation, under the leadership of Police Captain, Jon Barnacha, was aimed at motorcycle riders who see the stretch of Marilaque or the Manila – Rizal – Laguna – Quezon Highway as a proving ground to hone their skills in motorcycle riding. Unfortunately, it often results in either a crash, injuries, or sometimes fatalities to both themselves and other innocent road users.
In a post from their official Facebook page, the PNP – HPG Rizal was very happy to report that there were ZERO accidents and ZERO deaths on that stretch of the road during the operation weekend, between September 7 and 8. This is a pleasant improvement over the past few years, where there has been, on average 2 or 3 mishaps every weekend, which local officials blame on unruly and undisciplined motorcycle riders.
In total, there were 35 motorcycles impounded due to various traffic violations, including riding an unregistered vehicle (PhP10,000 fine). 20 T.O.P or Temporary Operator's Permit tickets were issued to other erring motorcycle riders with traffic violations ranging from illegal modification, no helmet, improper attire (slippers) and other violations related to RA 4136 or the Land Transportation and Traffic Code of the Philippines.
Do you think this will finally solve the Marilaque kamote rider epidemic? We also hope and pray that this will be a regular operation to instill traffic discipline not just among motorcycle riders, but also to all motorists.
