Earlier this month, Petron began implementing dedicated motorcycle lanes on select stations. These are essentially separate fuel pumps specifically for motorcycles and tricycles.
This motorcycle lane was met with a mix of praise and criticism from motorcycle riders themselves and other motorists. Some say that this is good for the safety of riders, while others, particularly motorcycle riders, say that this is another form of discrimination against motorcycle riders.
But what could be the reason behind this new MC lane inside Petron stations? Petron says it is to prevent the line-cutting of some motorcyclists, which irk other customers.
“The exclusive motorcycle lane, which also accommodates tricycles, ensures the safety of customers by segregating smaller vehicles from 4-wheel and other large vehicles while providing convenience through faster transactions. This also avoids line-cutting — a common source of misunderstanding and arguments among customers,” said Petron in a press statement.
Because some unruly motorcycle riders cut the lines when gassing up, Petron thought of initiating this new MC lane policy in some of their gas stations to avoid arguments between customers. By not following an established social norm of falling in line, motorcycles now need to wait for their turn at dedicated fuel pump in select Petron stations.
As of today, there are 135 Petron stations in Metro Manila, Baguio City, Olongapo City, as well as the Northern Luzon provinces of Apayao, Bataan, Benguet, Bulacan, Cagayan, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Isabela, Kalinga, La Union, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Pangasinan, Tarlac, and Zambales that have already implemented the MC lane. Select Petron stations in South Luzon, particularly Batangas, Cavite, Laguna, and Quezon provinces have also implemented the program.
“The exclusive motorcycle lane program will continue to roll out to other Petron stations in Luzon and Vismin in the coming months, to offer the millions of Filipino motorcycle riders safer, faster, and more convenient service,” added Petron.
