Memorandum Order No. AHS-2008-01 which has the subject “Revised rules and regulations for the use of operation of motorcycles on highways” is the result of the series of consultations that the LTO conducted with the various representatives of both the Motorcycle Community and Industry.

Critical among the changes introduced is item number 7 which states…

Implementation of paragraph 3, Section 8 of AO No. AHS-2008-15 requiring prior approval of the LTO and the DTI in modifying original standard design of a motorcycle or scooter is hereby suspended, together with Section 11d hereof.

This defuses, at least momentarily, a highly volatile atmosphere in the community which was generally up in arms over the orders broad scope.

Another noteworthy entry of the Order is item number 5 which states..

Section XI a) of AHS-2008-15 shall read as thus:
Sec. XI a) For failure of rider and/or back rider to wear a helmet, a fine of One Thousand Five Hundred Pesos (P1,500.00) with accessory penalty of driver/rider attending a seminar on traffic safety management to be conducted by the LTO.

I believe this is as close as we have gotten to having a national helmet law. While there will surely be some opposition to this item, I think there is much more data to suggest that helmets do save lives as opposed to not doing so. But that is a long discussion for another day. We congratulate all those who have helped in the resolution of this issue and we are happy to see that Government is finally listening to the riders with regards to the laws that directly affect the way we use the roads.

Thank you to Spike of the Alamat Crewsers, Jobert Bolanos of MRO(Motorcycle Rights Organization)/MAP (Motorcycle Advocates of the Philippines) and Henry Reyes of http://philippinemotorcycles.ning.com/and MAP for furnishing MCP with a copy of the Memorandum Order.

You can download a copy of Memo No. AHS-2008-01 here.

5:00 AM – September 30
I just finished speaking to one of my clients here at work when I began to review all the documents I have for today’s review of the LTO (Land Transport Office) Administrative Order AHS-2008-015. At this point, I was already feeling the effects of the past month’s work as it slowly take it’s toll on my body. I find it hard to control my urge to fall asleep while at work. At a certain point, I even told myself that I wanted to just go home and sleep it off. And let the others who will attend the review update me when I wake up. Then it struck me, I cannot and will not let this day pass even if my life depended on it. So I continue reading my documents.

7:00 AM
Stood up, grabbed my bag and logged out. I was getting groggy and could hardly keep my self up. Before proceeding to the basement, I got my self a can of Mountain Dew to perk myself up a bit. I slugged the can in one straight whiff and geared up. Started my motorcycle and exited the building. It was a very bright sunny morning. I took my usual route out of Robinson’s Galleria onto EDSA. The traffic was pretty light and the vehicles on the streets were not so many. I arrived in LTO in less than 20 minutes. As I parked my bike, I told myself that a good breakfast at the LTO canteen should perk me up. So I walked towards the back of the compound only to find the old canteen building in rubbles. I was somewhat dismayed by the fact that I couldn’t feed myself before the review. So I walked back to my motorcycle feeling depressed due to the absence of food.

Before reaching the motorcycle, I texted the MRO (Motorcycle Rights Organization) gang and told them of my demise. First one who called me was Jake. Told him the situation so he asked what I wanted and he will just buy along the way. Wooot! Jake to the rescue! As I sat down on my motorcycle waiting for familiar faces to arrive, I saw a few official vehicles pass by. AAP, NLEX, and DOTC went through the parking space. Wow! The government is in full force!

At about 10minutes to 8, Jake and his wife passed and ASTEK was following closely behind. Afetr ASTEK parked his bike, we had a smoke before we went up the main LTO building to meet Jake. Alas! Food! Jake was kind enough to buy me a McDonalds’ sandwich and a hash brown with OJ!. It felt good having to put something in my stomach. It helped a lot in keeping me up during the entire proceedings.

8:15 AM
We were told to enter the EDU hall Bulwagang Romeo Edu (Romeo Edu Theater) and sign the attendance sheet. I finished my drink and disposed of the cup. I immediately got my documents out in preparation for the review which we anxiously waited for the start of the show. While waiting, the guy at the pc, played a movie for everyone to see. I believe it was 2 Fast 2 Furious.

9:40 AM
After almost two hours of waiting, LTO Chief Alberto Suansing and Traffic Safety Division Head Daisy Jacobo walked in the hall with Congressman Henry Teves from the 3rd District of Negros Oriental. They immediately went to business and started the review. As per Ms. Jacobo, they already have the results of their technical working group from the LTO. So we patiently watched for them to start the presentation.

As the presenter read the topics on their study, I then realized that a lot of what she said was within the document we sent over to DOTC and Suansing last September 22. Did they use the document? I guess I will never know however, a part of me thinks that the documents were actually considered. Due to the similarities in what was being shown to us, I felt a lot more secured and hopeful since they actually considered our work and used it as a basis for their summary of September 10’s workshop.

First on the Agenda was the 2 license plates. The presentation prepared showed that the provisions in making the plate was too much for the LTO to handle and that the manufacturers really have no set design or standard as to the placement of a plate in front. Also, no-one was willing to shoulder it’s cost. After a few reactions from the other people in the meeting, It was then stressed that the proposal wasn’t created by the LTO rather, it was the PNP who wanted the provision. The verdict was, and direct from ASEC Suansing was, they will not implement nor even endorse the proposal. A warm round of applause was given out for the announcement.

We then moved on to the AO (Administrative Order). The first hit was the the term “Rider” was established and that it had to replace the “driver” which was put on the AO. The next agenda was to change the Accessories like the headlight, break light, horn and side mirrors should be tagged as Standard equipment/parts needed for a motorcycle. With that said, It was agreed upon and will be corrected on the submission of another AO that amends the AHS-2008-015.

Next up was the issue regarding pillions on bikes or for lack of a better term, the passengers. Congressman Teves strongly opposed the bannig of habal habal on the roads of Visayas and Mindanao. He told the LTO that the people who operate Habal Habal motorcycles should be allowed to carry 2 of mored jackets while driving within their municipality and to dis allow them on national highways. This will be under further studies until a decision is made.

Now, we focused on the helmets. It was discussed that the need for everybody to wear helmets is a must. When Ms. Jacobo called on the representative of DTI (Department of Trade and Industry) to explain their position, they mentioned that by November 1, will start the total ban of helmets that do not , they will start going around stores to see if the helmets are upon standard. Although they cannot apprehend people on the streets, the DTI told everybody that they have decided to use ECE 22.05 as the Philippines standard helmet. However, since Visayas and Mindanao is not aware of this and the availability of the helmet is weak, it was decided upon that for now, while DTI and LTO has not drawn a consensus on the helmets, Any helmet that has the 4 complete parts should be allowed but only until 2013. These parts are the outer shell (Polycarbon, Fiberglass or Plastic.), the inner core which is primarily made with Styrofoam, the lining or paddings and the strap. These components should be available in all helmets that will be allowed for the mean time. So for now, what is not allowed are the baseball hat helmets, Construction helmets, “Kaldero” types and bicycle helmets as these are not intended for us on the streets. So now, the mandatory helmet law shall remain but only based on what was agreed upon. You must wear you helmets all the time to avoid being harrassed by “NEEDY” policemen or enforcers. This will be irregardless of it’s manufacturer or standard rating.

As for the other protective devices, We talked about the shoes of rider. It has been agreed upon that the LTO will come out with a resolution as to what the the shoes cover. As long as you use “closed toe” shoes, you should be ok. To simplify, No Helmet and No Shoes will be subject to apprehensions. As for jackets and pants, there will be no provision to make them into a regulated issue. So, the AO that covers protective devices shall be suspended on the areas of jackets, pants and rain gear. The mandatory helmet and shoes shall be observed on a national level. In 5 years, everybody needs to change their helmets into the right standard that LTO will recommend.

During the conversations, Macky Carapiet of NAMSSA (National Motorcycle Sports and Safety Association) played a major role in explaining about the different standards and how the LTO should allow the readily available helmets for street use so that we can ensure the use of the devices and until the time set by the LTO which is in 5 years. Thank you Macky for your help on this one!!!

The following topic was also crucial since a lot of people will be affected. For cargo and luggage carriers again, Macky Carapiet played a major role by providing info as to the dimensions allowed on the motorcycles. During the defense of Jake on the issue, It was established that the apprehending officers has no means on how to measure the weight of the cargo on the motorcycle. So, as long as the dimensions do not go beyond 2 feet from the side of the motorcycle and do not go beyond the top of the head of a rider in a sitting position, this shall be allowed for now. So the Carriage and Saddle Bag provisions is suspended.

And now, for the crucial part of the entire review. It has already been established that the RA 4136 (Republic Act 4136: AN ACT TO COMPILE THE LAWS RELATIVE TO LAND TRANSPORTATION AND TRAFFIC RULES, TO CREATE A LAND TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES) is the main source of information that we used and we got several excerpts for famous riders here and abroad. The modification on a motorcycle. A lot of people shared their opinions on this and it was agreed upon that the inspection will be done during registration but the enforcers will have the right to apprehend based on the following criteria only: Headlight, stop/brake lights, signal light, horn and rear view mirrors. All the items mentioned shall be based on whether it works or not and it follows the provisions stated on RA 4136.

These are the basic guidelines based on the comments and suggestions from the community as well as the MRO’s stand:

Tires

— Motorcycle tires meant for road use

— No competition tires (Slicks)

Excerpts:

— As per RA 4136, Article IV, Section 34, Letter (A): Tires of motor vehicles. – No motor vehicle with metallic tires shall be operated upon any public highway, and solid tires whenever used shall be of sufficient thickness to prevent the metal rims thereof from coming in direct contact with the road.

Brakes

— Brake Rotors

— Caliper

— Drum Brakes

— Hydraulic brake hose

— Brake levers

— Brake master cylinders

— Every component must work properly and must be free from leaks, loss of pressure and all the cables and hoses should be properly installed and be free from damage or interference.

Horns

— Should not be sirens or make equivalent tones used by emergency vehicles

Excerpts:

— As per RA 4136, Article IV, Section 34, Letter (B-1): Every motor vehicle shall be provided with a horn or signalling devise in good working order: Provided, however, That no horn or signalling device emitting an exceptionally loud, startling, or disagreeable sound shall be installed or used on any motor vehicle.

— All authorized emergency vehicles, such as ambulance and police cars and fire wagons used for emergency calls shall be equipped with a bell, siren, or exhaust whistle of a type approved by the Commissioner, and no such device shall be installed or used in any other vehicle.

Lights or Lamps

— Lights (head, brake, license plate light, auxiliary lights, signal lights)

— Headlights

— Front lights can only be white or yellowish in color

— Low beam should be adjusted so that it doesn’t create glare to other road users

— Front lights should be angled properly

— The headlamp assembly should have the ability to properly diffuse the light beam in a way that doesn’t cause glare for other road users. Granted that there are bikes that use HID conversion kits in assemblies not meant for use with an HID system, they can create unnecessary glare for other road users. The conversion must not create unnecessary glare on low or high beam

— This might be a viable compromise for HID conversion kits, which could allow them to be used with the motorcycles. A study of stock headlamps might be useful for determining this.

— Brake lights

— Tail and brake lights should be red

— Should be clearly visible from 50 meters or 164 feet away

— Taillights or license plate lights

— Should illuminate the plates at night

— Auxiliary lights

— As long as it does not create glare to other road users.

— The use of auxiliary lights of motorcycles is questionable, but you could view the installation of auxiliary lights like this; since motorcycles are difficult to spot in the daytime, it can be safely assumed that they are harder to spot at night and auxiliary lights assist in making them easier to notice. An important guideline can be put in a way that they should not create conflicting messages when used with the tail light, brake light, signal lights.

Excerpts:

— As per RA 4136, Article IV, Section 34, Letter (F): Motorcycle and other vehicle lights. – Every motor vehicle of less than one meter of projected width shall be subject to the preceding provisions of this section, except that one headlight and one taillight shall be required. No signal light shall be necessary.

— Additional lamps may be carried provided they comply with the preceding provisions of this section.

— Every motor vehicle, or whatever style, kind, make, character, or nature, when upon a highway during the hours above-mentioned, whether in motion or not, shall have one or more lights so arranged that the same shall be visible at least fifty meters from the front and the rear of such vehicle.

Mufflers

— We should establish an acceptable limit to the sound emitted by the mufflers.

— This requires further study and must be taken up with the proper agency governing emissions on vehicles.

Excerpts:

— As per RA 4136, Article IV, Section (J): Mufflers. – Every motor vehicle propelled by an internal combustion engine shall be equipped with a muffler, and whenever said motor vehicle passes through a street of any city, municipality, or thickly populated district or barrio, the muffler shall not be cut out or disconnected. No motor vehicle shall be operated in such a manner as to cause it to emit or make any unnecessary or disagreeable odour, smoke or noise.

Licence plates

— Should be mounted at the tail section of the motorcycle.

— Should be illuminated at night.

— Should not have any thing on top of it that may distort, create glare when hit by a light source and a reflection when looking at it in an angle.

Excerpts:

— As per RA 4136, Article III, Section 18: Section 18. Use of number plates. – At all times, every motor vehicle shall display in conspicuous places, one in front and one in the rear thereof, the said number plates.

— The number plates shall be kept clean and cared for, and shall be firmly affixed to the motor vehicle in such a manner as will make it entirely visible and always legible.

Freight, cargo, carriages and saddles

— Should be unregulated as long as the cargo weight, location, stability and dimension complies with the carrying capacity of the motorcycle

Excerpts:

— As per the Vienna Convention for Road Traffic, Article 30, Section 1: If a permissible maximum mass is laid down for a vehicle, the laden mass of the vehicle shall never exceed the permissible maximum mass.

— As per RA 4136, Article III, Section 32: Exceeding registered capacity. – No person operating any vehicle shall allow more passengers or more freight or cargo in his vehicle than its registered carrying capacity.

— As per RA 4136, Article II, Section 10, Letter B: To operate a motor vehicle with any part of the load extending beyond the projected width of the vehicle.

Side view mirrors

— Two mirrors are required that is mounted on each handlebar and must be effective in providing the rider with a view of the vehicles behind him.

Suspension (front fork/rear shocks)

— A common reason why suspension is changed or modified is to improve the handling and manoeuvrability of the motorcycle. It helps the rider in terms of comfort and stability on the road. It also gives certain bikes the look that the rider is after. And there are cases that suspension is changed to fit the use of the bike.

— Adjustment of the suspension is also made to accommodate riders who are vertically challenged.

Stereo

— Should be operated at an acceptable level/volume only.

— There are motorcycles that came out of the manufacturers with stereo systems already installed.

The following items have been subjected to scrutiny but have no viable data and statistics to say that there are known adverse effects to handling and safety. They are usually aesthetic in nature. Some have been known to improve the way the bikes perform.

— Rear sets

— Adjusts the weight distribution of the motorcycle to make it more manoeuvrable in turning.

— Increases ground clearance.

— Clip ons/handlebars

— Helps in steering the motorcycle.

— We have not heard the reasons as to why clip ons are dangerous.

— Swing arm

— Specifically, what modifications on swing arms make it dangerous?

— Rims/alloy wheels

— Changing the material improves the strength of the wheel in general.

— Widening the wheels allow the use of tires with superior construction and compounds.

— The lighter materials used in the construction of the wheels or rims reduce un-sprung weight making it easier to steer the motorcycle and improve fuel economy.

— Fender eliminators

— Does nothing to affect the safety and handling of a motorcycle.

— Seats and seat covers

— This is purely aesthetic. No effect whatsoever.

— Instrument panel

— How does this affect safety and handling?

So basically, the above document was considered by the LTO. In fact, even Ms Jacobo herself wants a copy of the said document. Initially, this is the framework of our previous presentation that we worked on to enhance some more. After establishing that creating the proper guidelines and itemized list of components that will be deemed illegal for public road use will take more study and time, The people requested that the regulation on modifications be suspended. This was agreed upon by ASEC Suansing and the crowd cheered and clapped upon hearing all this.

Near the end of the meeting, Ms Jacobo enumerated the following for action, an issuance of a memoratorium or an amended AO effective immediately to suspend the following:

1. The suspension and non-endorsement of the second plate.
2. Allowing the Habal Habal to operate in provinces given that they do not cross national highways between towns.
3. Allowing more than one passenger as long as the volume of vehicles in that town is at an acceptable volume. Traversing between towns will not be allowed for more than 1 passengers.
4. The suspension of the regulation of the standard in helmets. Although made mandatory, as long as the helmet being used is specific for motorcycles.
5. The suspension on the regulation on apparel until they come up with a provision for the required shoes for riding.
6. The suspension on the ruling on carrying cargo. The current suggestion is to allow people to carry cargo based on weight, volume, stability and the location of the cargo.
7. The suspension of the regulation on modifications pending further review and study with the LTO and the Manufacturers.

We are trying to become part of number 7 so that we can give them insights and suggestions before they pass their recommendations to ensure that our opinions are taken in.

At the end of the day, all groups converged and acted as one to give out their recommendations for the amendment of the AO in question. We are happy to have been welcomed and our proposals considered by all the concerned parties. In this meeting, we showed the LTO that we are all after the same goals.

We had a few photo ops with Congressman Teves and ASEC Suansing before we packed up. During the photo op with the Congressman, we established communications with him and will continue to work with him from here on in. He has acknowledged our group and has given me his assurance that they will be in touch when they create the proposal to amend RA 4136.

All in all, it was a good day for all and it was extremely satisfactory. Although we still have a very long way to go and more meetings to attend, at least we have established the direction that we all want to go towards to.

I wish to thank everybody who pitched in during the review and the camaraderie shown by the different groups.

To the people in the forums with their comments and suggestions, the credit belongs to you for helping and supporting us every step of the way. Now that the document that the MRO made is in their hands, we hope to be able to secure a good and harmonious working relationship with the LTO to prevent things like this from happening again.

Thank you to the people if the LTO for giving us another chance and for listening and considering our recommendations.

Thank you Congressman Teves for being there during the review and for strongly voicing out your concern.

Thank you MCPF (Motorcycle Philippines Federation) for being there and for supporting the cause.

Thank you Bikes and Channel 7 for a comprehensive and objective report on the event that just transpired.

Thank you MCP (MotorcyclePhilippines.Com) for being the bridge to each and every rider out there.

Thank you to the people who worked with us in getting this done.

Thank you to all who have shown support to MRO.

Thank you God for blessing us and protecting us during this trying and tiring times.

This is only the foot of the mountain. We have yet to get to the summit. MRO (Motorcycle Rights Organization) will take you there!

God bless us all! We will prevail!

About ready to leave the house to head towards UP and my appointment with the UP Chapel priests who will do a pray over for the event till morning. A few days back, I have told them about out battle against discrimination and that I was going to give a speech to the people who were affected and thousands if not millions more on TV, Newspapers and Radio. So I geared up, got all the papers I printed, got my helmet and went out.

As I stepped out and looked at the sky, I wished that it stayed dry all throughout.

9:00 pm

I got to the chapel and there were three priests waiting for me. They asked me to bring my stuff into a small prayer room where there was some coffee, sandwiches and cookies on the side. They served me coffee for what it seems is going to be one of my longest nights ever. While I was drinking, the priests asked about the event and what we were all fighting for. So I explained everything. While I was talking to them about it, I notice the two priests holding their scapulars and their rosaries and was already praying silently as I was talking to the third priest about what we are fighting for.

The conversation went on through the night as we exchanged thoughts and ideas about the issue.

3:00 am

My worst fear started to happen when I heard the rain falling down. One of the priests said, don’t worry, God is blessing the streets so that everybody will have a safe ride. I relaxed a little after hearing that.

4:00 am

I was getting a little worried again because I could still hear the rain falling. I was near the end of arranging all the documents I had to bring in case a press conference was going to happen. You’ll never know. I was getting more and more nervous as I had fears of the turnout of the motorcade. I just kept on praying. Then a priest brought in a small mattress and a pillow and told me to rest up. They had me lay down and surprisingly, I was in a state of calmness and dozed off into lala land.

7:15 am

The priests woke me up and gave me a cup of tea instead of coffee this time. They said it would give me a better feeling. To my surprise, the rain stopped and the sun was showing it’s face ever so slightly. It felt good and I got excited to see that the weather was cooperating with us. As they walked me out of the chapel and into the place where I parked my bike, I felt relieved. They did a quick blessing ceremony as I was sitting on it. They even blessed my helmet! After a few pats on the back and a good luck from the eldest priest, I started my bike, waved and went on my way.

7:45 am

I was already in Riverbanks mall. Upon seeing that there was nobody there, I proceeded to Shell J. Vargas.

8:00 am

Upon reaching shell, I saw this PGO scooter and a familiar face. It was the camera man of Bikes and he was with a few people. I parked my scooter right beside their van, got my gears off and greeted them. I finally got to meet Sonicboom from the forums! Another big guy was with them who apparently owned the scooter. I was then told that they will be riding with us to cover the whole event from beginning till end. There was a few more people on the side of select so I greeted them and thanked them for joining in.

8:30 am

A few more people started to come in so I took out my ribbons and scissors in case some of them needed more on their bikes. I also fixed and added more ribbons on mine. As I waited for the participants to arrive slowly but surely, I kept wondering where the other groups were. I was sort of expecting a few more from the texts and calls I received the past couple of days before this event. Then, iceroland of HeadStart arrived on his tiny mio sporty. He just came all the way from Pampanga just to cover this event for their show. He told me that he had left a good friend to attend and supervise the motorcade back there. They were expecting a few hundred bikes and cagers to attend the motorcade.

9:00 am

I was already frantically calling the MRO lieutenants back and forth to check on their status and head count. Astek reported a good number. They were already brewing close to a hundred riders already. My first call to don was just a few bikers but the last time I called him, he said there were about 50+ already and they were doing a photo op on site. As for the Cavite group, they have already filled up their meeting place with close to 300 riders! I wish I saw the sheer number of that single group. The Marikina boys also started to arrive. Familiar face since I live in Marikina and a couple of them I have been with for some time already, Ai2 decals and Gani of Santos motorcycle shop.

Then I get a surprising call. Daniel Sunga of the Davao Aguila Riders was on the other line. He asked me the plans for today and that he was also preparing his area in Davao but will be doing the motorcade in the afternoon when he arrives there. I told him that it doesn’t matter what time they do it as long as they do it on this momentous day. He gave his words of encouragement and we exchanged our thank you’s before saying goodbye. I was in total awe from the call and was really happy that one of the most active groups in this fight against the AO gave me a call and told me that he was fully supportive of the MRO. I felt really good after that. Then more and more calls came in from different parts of the country who were reporting in and telling me their projected head count. Then I realized, we have done what we hoped to do. To turn this event into a nationwide, simultaneous motorcade!

9:30 am

I told the group to get ready as we were leaving in 15 minutes. I gassed up and packed my things and talked to the Club 1600 representatives about their plan to go around Pasig to distribute flyers and ribbons. After the short conversation, I called the group together and asked to have a short prayer. A fine man took centre stand and led this wonderful prayer for all of us. I am truly sorry for forgetting your name but you know who you are. Thank you! I then assigned one of the PSRC riders, Jonbaq to spear head the group as I was going to be marshal. I went to one of the Marikina riders, Gani, and assigned him to sweep for us. I then signalled the group to mount up and to get ready to roll out. Before mounting my bike, Sonicboom walked to me and greeted me good luck as he was on his way to another event.

10:00 am

We left J Vargas as a small group of about 20 riders and their back rides and headed off towards Meralco Avenue to get to Ortigas. At first, it was a little disorganized especially when we got to Ortigas where the traffic was so bad. When we crossed EDSA, I signalled our spearhed to do a one lane slow run and stop whenever the traffic in front stops. Before reaching the Greenhills proper, we were one group and the motorcade, although small, now looked organized. We formed a 2 bike abreast formation that extended about 3 car lengths. We rode from Ortigas, onto Balete Drive and we turned right at E. Rodriguez. The sun was high and mighty and I was concerned about the heat getting to the group. So I checked up on them periodically and made sure everybody was alright. As we exited E. Rodriguez, and made our U turn near Welcome Rotonda, I realized that we were already half way through our ride and was nearing our destination.

As we hit Espana, we saw from a distance a huge operation. Men in black shirts with yellow markings on their backs were all over the place. I signalled the group and pointed at the LTO Officers conducting an operation right there along Espana Road! Then the traffic had us stop right at the centre of the place where they were conducting what it seemed like, plate removal from vehicles! I got nervous. So I signalled iceroland to get his camera ready and to shove his camera on their faces when they attempt to apprehend us. As we were patiently waiting for the traffic to move, the chief of the operations, wearing a light blue polo started to walk towards us. I told myself, this is it. Drama! To my astonishment, he just walked through the middle of our motorcade, glaring at the bikes and staring specifically at the loud ones and the ribbons attached to the bikes. He stepped up on the island and took another look at us and crossed towards the other side. He let us go! As we were about to move, I noticed a stack of motorcycle plates on the sidewalk and a few more that one of the guys in black was holding. I felt sorry for the people who got caught and got their plates removed that day. If you are one of them, you should contact me asap!

At this point, my cellphone was already dead and I couldn’t tell the time anymore. As we crossed the cut off to head to head towards Quiapo church, my heart was beating faster and faster. I was praying at this point and asking God to ensure the safety of the riders and that the bigger group of don pangan to be let through the LTO operation in Espana.

As we approached Quiapo, there was a lot of traffic in the area and all I can see were busses and jeeps. I was hoping that we weren’t the first group to arrive since our group was pretty small. When we got to the church, I was astounded by the sheer number of bikes lined up in front of the park. There were layers and layers of bikes all over the place! As I weaved through and found myself a spot inside the park, I let of a sigh of relief as I see over 150 bikes already there on site! People were cheering at every bike arriving and joining us inside the park. It was a sight to behold at least for me.
After a few minutes, don pangan’s group arrived and now, the place was filled up!!! I could say that the number was about 300+ bikes and the plaza was filled up by about 70-75%. I was getting emotional at this point. I said to myself, we have pulled it off. We have done what we have set up to do.

The interviews started almost instantaneously, with people gathering up from all sides trying to catch a glimpse of what is happening and trying to listen in to the message I was trying to deliver on camera. After the interview, I immediately called on don to rally up the press people so we can begin. The press had us positioned for a photo op and got close-ups of bikes with the banners and placards and the entire group with their hands and helmets raised up in the air. After the short photo-ops, I then called upon the riders to assemble for the delivery of the official statement that we wanted the whole nation to hear. As I introduced myself to the people, my heart was thumping over time. I told them that I was happy to see all of them and that I am at a loss of words at what I was looking. The emotions were all over the place and I could feel the energy generating from every rider who came.

As I started the speech, I couldn’t help feel nauseous probably because of the heat of the sun. I tried my best to shout out the statement so that everybody could hear it. As I was reading through, there was a few times where I felt breaking down. I tried my best to keep my composure and kept on reading at the top of my lungs. A few tears let go and I hoped the crown didn’t notice the difference from the sweat flowing from my face. As I got near the end of my speech, I said to myself, I hope we get a good response. After saying the last lines of the statement, the roar of the crowd hit me like an invisible tsunami. People shouting, clapping and cheering all over the place. Then I delivered the last piece of news I had for them. I told them that the LTO has once again opened their doors to us and have invited the participants of the first workshop back for the review of the AO. People started to cheer as they heard the news and it was a sign that what we have been doing is taking effect and is making the LTO realize what they were doing. I then started to deliver the message for the MRO and how we need their continued support in preparation for the worst that may happen. I told them that the registration of the organization is on its last leg and that we would be accepting donations in preparation for the case that we will be filing in case the LTO doesn’t heed our call and grievances. The people showed tremendous support and they were told about the future of the MRO and what we intend to do and how we intend to do it. After a last hurrah from the crowd, we ended the motorcade in a blast of cheers and claps.

This is when I realized that what we have started and what we have done as taken its effect and has gained enough momentum to unify the community. I wish to thank all those who came and who has supported us in this fight. I wish to congratulate the organizers of each area who participated and did their own motorcades in their vicinity. I wish to tell everybody who has spear headed, sweeped and marshalled the event, a good job!

Again, thank you!

On behalf of the MRO and MAP, MARAMING MARAMING SALAMAT PO!!! MABUHAY PO TAYONG LAHAT!!! WE WILL PREVAIL!!!

The meeting started out a bit late at around 8:45AM with the participants being asked to register before being seated in the Bulwagang Romeo Edu in the LTO Main Office in East Avenue, Quezon City. Ms. Daisy Jacobo, Chief of the Traffic Safety Division, LTO started the meeting by introducing Jake Swann of the MRC and MCPF. Jake then turned over the floor to MRO Chair and MAP Interim President Jobert Bolanos for a brief presentation of the community’s stand on the AO.

It was at this point that things began to turn rather odd. At the start of the presentation as Jobert mentioned that workgroups will be formed after the presentation, Ms. Jacobo suddenly interjected and said, rather sternly, that there will be no more workgroups and that we can continue on with the presentation and that we had the whole venue to ourselves till the afternoon, after which she promptly stormed out of the room. Jobert continued his presentation to the confused audience who were all wondering where the representative from the LTO was since this was a presentation that was designed for THEM.

As Jobert tried his best to continue his presentation, at around 9:15 AM, LTO Chief Roberto Suansing made a rather surprising and sudden appearance. I will not speculate as to who dragged him out of his office but it was a good thing because coming into the theater behind him was Ms. Jacobo herself.

After a few introductions, Asec. Suansing gave a short speech mostly about the general nature of the AO and expressed hope that we can resolve the issue by working with them. After that brief statement he turns over the floor to Ms. Jacobo again who introduces Senior Supt. Dennis Siervo, chief of the HPG National Capital Region Office.

Now I welcome the Supt. Siervo’s candor during his time on the rostrum but I honestly believe that he came out too stern and was berating us most of the time regarding how hard it is for them to implement and apprehend lawless elements. And take note, he used the moniker “motorcycle criminals” a bit too often to describe riders. Though a bit on the rough and unpolished side, I understand where Supt. Siervo is coming from. They are just following the letter of the law since they are enforcers. An audience with Supt. Siervo may be needed at a future time to discuss other matters but for today’s agenda he was, as a popular forum lingo goes, Off Topic.

After a 15 minute break Ms. Jacobo hurriedly went inside again and divided the group into 5 subgroups to discuss the Issues, Alternative Solutions and Governing Body. Any discussion about the presentation was shot down altogether saying that if we were going to have the presentation there was not going to be any Workshop. I honestly felt I was back in Grade School as the group of grown men and leaders of the MC community and industry were made to group themselves into 5’s and write on a big sheet of Manila Paper with Pentel Pens. Honestly, it was a bad bad Grade School flashback. It was at this time that I seriously doubted the sincerity of the LTO to produce solutions based on our recommendations.

After being given 25 minutes to formulate recommendations on a complex issue, each group was made to report, in front of the class, i mean group. The recommendations were mostly of the same nature. The most common stand being “Define modifications on a per item basis”. I was impressed with most of the reports given. It was clear that the community was pulling together on this one to really improve the situation for riders of all classes. Safety was the big battle cry from all. The plea was basically made in unison by all. But the plea fell mostly on deaf ears. Ms. Jacobo then collected all the sheets of Manila Paper and said that they will then be forwarded to a Technical Working Group for discussion. And I thought this was the technical working group.

During the Q&A that followed, Mr. Edwin Go of MDAP raised a very valid question regarding what will happen now that all the recommendations are being processed by the Technical Working Group. He mentioned that since the AO is under review it cannot possibly be enforced and if it isn’t enforced how will the different agencies be told about it since apprehensions and denials of registrations have been reported due to violations which use the AO as reference. He was me with a rather disappointing answer. Ms. Jacobo said that it is useless to throw accusations if you do not have facts or proof that the law enforcers have actually violated the law. Show us the proof she cries. It’s like answering a question with a question. After a few more questions answered roughly along the same line, Ms. Jacobo called a lunch break and served us lunch then proceeded to close the meeting and left the room as we were eating. Well I guess that ends that.

While the meeting was a good first step towards recognizing MC’s and maybe a small step to the creation of a National Agenda for Motorcycles, I was supremely disappointed at the LTO’s cavalier attitude towards the plight of the ordinary motorcycle rider. There is a total disconnect between what they formulate as law and what happens on the road. There is still some hope tough. The papers have been submitted, recommendations have been made. We have done what we could, legally, and all we can hope for is a fair shake at what is right and what is wrong.

Congratulations to all those who participated and helped, let us not give up hope for we are fighting the good fight.

Materials related to the Workshop will be made available to the public on this site, so watch out for it.

According to eyewitness reports, the bus rear-ended Mr. Barnes as their group was slowing down to pull into a gas station along the South Luzon Expressway. The driver of the bus apparently escaped after the accident (according to the news report). Curiously the initial report on the ABS-CBN News website has mysteriously disappeared and is no longer viewable.

This is not the first time an accident involving passenger buses and motorcycles have been covered by mainstream media. But this is the first time in a long while that a member of a well known and respected MC Club was involved.

We hope that this case will receive justice swiftly. We remember all too well the runaround some families have been given.

Motorcycle Philippines extends it’s condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Neil Barnes.

from the MDMC website.

Lawmakers seek motorbike ban on highways
Thursday, January 3, 2008

Two lawmakers have filed a bill at the House of Representatives seeking to ban motorcycles on main thoroughfares and national highways.

Reps. Narciso Santiago of the Alliance for Rural Concerns and Marcelino Teodoro of Marikina said House Bill 3080 aims to prevent road accidents, particularly those involving motorcycles.

Citing a World Health Organization report, Santiago said in many Asian countries including the Philippines, road accidents are usually caused by motorcycles.

“Nearly 1.2 million persons die of road traffic accidents every year, 40 percent of which are under 25 years old,” he said.

Santiago said young motorcyclists make up a significant percentage of injuries and fatalities among road users in many Asian countries.

Among the accident reports cited by WHO, speeding, non-use of helmets, risk-taking behavior and drunk driving were contributing factors to the rising trend of traffic accidents, he added.

Teodoro said an Asian Development Bank report on road safety in the Philippines showed that motorcyclists were the “second most at risk” of being killed or injured in a road accident.

“At present, motorcycles are a growing concern as its number increased to 40 percent per year in the last three years,” he revealed.

Records from the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority showed that motorcycles have the highest fatality accident rate with 122 motorcycles or 23.6 percent of the total fatal accidents. – Delon Porcalla

…. A few days ago this was the news that shocked the motorcycle riding community even the people involved in the business of motorcycles.

January 3, 2007 about the same day that this newspaper article came out, the camp of congressman Marci Teodoro was looking for the directors of Motorcycle Philippines federation (MCPF) to clarify this issue that was pointed against him. He met up with Jojo Medina, the Director for Operations of MCPF thru the arrangement of Roland Tantay, club president of club 613 of Marikina also a consultant of the congressman. Together with Allan Capendit of Asac Riders, Mike Balanquit of Fortune riders, Boyet Inlong of Mamu riders and Benedict Trinidad of dink riders all members of the Marikina motorcycle Riders Federation

Congressman Teodoro clarified to Director Jojo Medina that he was not the author of the bill in fact he is pro motorcyclist. His letter to Director Jojo Medina read like this:

Jan. 3, 2007,

Dear Mr. Medina,

I wish to clarify my position on the issue of banning motorcycles from national roads and highways. I was informed by Mr. Ronald Tantay of Club 613 that a news item stated that I am supporting such a proposal. I must state in the clearest terms that the news item must have been mistaken. I do not intend to ban motorcycles on national roads and highways because I recognize the right of our motorcycle riders to travel on our roads and highways.

In fact, I proposed a bill which, if passed, will make national roads and highways safer for motorcycle and bicycle riders. HB 3145, or the segregated Cycle Lanes Act of 2007, will be beneficial for our motorcycle riders because the bill provides for separate or segregated lanes and facilities on all roads and highways throughout the country. The bill was filed on November 22, 2007 and was subsequently considered on first reading on November 28. I attached with this letter a copy of the bill for your perusal and guidance.

In brief, the bill seeks to:

1. Not simply recognize the right fo our motorcycle and bicycle riders but also concretize this right by making motorcycle and bicycle lanes a requirement in every road plan and construction
2. Provide motorcycle riders full access to the entire road network of the country; and
3. Most importantly, ensure the safety of motorcycle riders on our national roads

And highways so as to minimize accidents and lessen the risk on their safety.

Clearly, it is my intention to protect the rights of motorcycle riders and not ban them from the use of our roads and highways. If only to further confirm my support for motorcycle riders, I also attached here the House journal recording my authorship of HB 3145 and it’s consideration by the committee.

I am aware that motorcycles are an indispensable mode of transportation in the country and I seek to promote the welfare of motorcycle riders the country and I seek to promote the welfare of motorcycle riders through the passage of HB 3145. Additionaly, I solicit your support for this bill so that it can be improved further. We can sit together for a discussion on this bill as well as on the other concerns of our motorcycle riders. Perhaps your sector, through it’s representatives, can take part in the forthcoming deliberations and committee hearings for this bill.

Thank you very much, I remain

Marcelino Teodoro

Both Congressman and Director Jojo Medina shook hands and promised to work together for the betterment of motorcycle riders.

Also connected with the issue…

During the meeting Congressman Teodoro phoned Congressman Narciso Santiago the author of the House Bill 3080 that seeks to ban motorcycles on major highways. Congressman Teodoro asked Congressman Narciso to back down on his bill and just support the bill that he will file with the support of MCPF for the safety of the riders. Congressman Santiago immediately agreed to back down on his proposal since his prime objective is also for the safety of motorcycle riders…

Both Congressman Teodoro and MCPF Director Jojo Medina thanked Congressman Santiago for his support and cooperation..

From GMA News TV

Motorcycles with engine displacement of at least 400 cubic centimeters (CC) can now use expressways but owners must strictly comply with toll way rules and regulation, the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) said Friday.

In the latest department order signed by DOTC Secretary Leandro Mendoza, dated October 4, 2007, 400 cc motorcycles will be allowed access in all expressways but they must comply with all the provision stated in Republic Act 4136 known as the Land Transportation and Traffic Code of the Philippines.

The order will replace the March 23, 2007 order of the DOTC No 2007-15 that declared all expressways as Limited Access Facilities and restricts all types of motorcycle from entering toll ways.

Based on the new order, motorcycles drivers should religiously observe roadworthiness, safety standards issued by competent authorities and licensing requirements.

Motorcycles must follow speed limits prescribed by law and toll way operators, must not lane-split and overtake in between lanes and must not use lanes normally used by other vehicles in accordance with safe motoring and practice.

The department order added that motorcycles must also travel with their headlights on at all times to improve and enhance their visibility to other toll way users and must ensure that their tail lights and turn-signal lights are working at all times.

Motorcycle owners, at the same time, will be allowed only one back rider and must each use protective gears particularly helmets.

They will also not be allowed to load extra cargo except for normally accepted saddlebags and for luggage carriers specifically designed for motorcycles.

Motorcycle users shall also pay a toll rate prescribed by a current class I vehicles and encouraged to use electronic toll collection equipment (E-pass or EC-Tag).

I remember the first time I drove a motorcycle on the expressway. It was 1967, and the new North Diversion Road (as it was then called) was almost finished, although it had not yet officially opened. I realized then that some motorcycles are made for open highways, while others do better on city roads. The concept of “limited access highways” was new in our country.

In 1968, the Department of Public Works and Communications issued Administrative Order No. 1, which, among other things, prohibited motorcycles on limited access highways, putting them in the same league as bicycles and pedicabs. This was contrary to the practice in most countries. The ban is based on the unexamined belief that motorcycles pose a greater danger than motorcars to the free flow of traffic on expressways.

Many years have passed, and, even as cars are getting smaller, the new bikes that are being produced are getting not only bigger and faster but also more stable and maneuverable. The science that has gone into the crafting of these high-performance machines necessitates a new way of driving. The power they pack imposes great responsibilities on their owners. In many countries, a license to drive such machines is issued only after the completion of a special riding course.

In July 2001, the Department of Public Works and Highways issued Department Order No. 123, allowing motorbikes with at least 400cc engine displacement access to the expressways. This new policy was prompted by a Makati City court’s grant of a preliminary injunction on a petition seeking the lifting of the ban, which had been filed earlier by bikers James Mirasol, Richard Santiago and the Luzon Motorcyclists Federation Inc.

Encouraged by this new policy, I bought my first big bike, a Ducati Monster S4, with an engine capacity of 916cc, one month after the ban was lifted. I’ve been riding almost every weekend ever since, using either the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) or the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) as access routes to the rest of this beautiful country.

But something happened to the world of motorcycling that was not foreseen. Taiwan, South Korea and China entered the scene as motorcycle manufacturers, churning out light motorbikes that were being sold at incredibly low prices. This compelled the Japanese producers that had traditionally supplied the bikes for the local tricycle market to come up with comparable models at competitive prices. The rise in overseas workers’ remittances in the past decade greatly stimulated the demand, and the availability of easy installment schemes changed the whole configuration of the market. In an instant, this chain of events democratized motorcycling as a hobby.

Today there are more than three million registered motorcycles in the country. Organized as associations of sporting enthusiasts, their owners constitute a formidable force. I remember being approached by a fellow rider whose beautiful modified “underbone” had caught my attention. In the course of our conversation, he brought up the idea of putting up a party-list group for motorcyclists. What would be our main advocacy, I asked. Well, he said, for one — the right of equal access to the expressways. Of course, he added, eyeing my Ducati, you don’t have this problem. But why, he pressed on, testing my democratic credentials, should the highways be for the exclusive use of the rich big bikers? He had a point.

I was going to build a case justifying the selective lifting of the ban, but lowering the minimum engine displacement requirement to maybe 250cc. I started to tell him that going on full-throttle speed to keep within the speed range of expressways could subject small engines and narrow tires to the risk of blow-ups. But my friend was in no mood to listen to a discourse on the concept of expressways and the rationality they embody.

I suddenly became aware that a simple distinction based on engine displacement had quietly acquired a class undertone. The big bike is no longer just a heavy machine; it has become a signifier of social exclusion. The unverbalized resentment that this breeds may sometimes be felt in the awkward social distance that segregates big bikers from the small “underbone” riders in gas stations where they congregate for their Sunday rides. There is an easy camaraderie among big bikers that is symbolized by the quick friendly wave on the road, but I have to admit this is not something customarily given to fellow riders on underbones.

The original petition filed by Mirasol, Santiago and the Luzon Motorcyclists Federation had sought the total removal of all motorcycles from the list of vehicles to be excluded from the expressways. Ironically, it was the big bikers who became the sole beneficiaries when the Department of Public Works and Highways amended its rules allowing motorbikes with at least 400cc displacement access to the freeways. This was like rubbing salt on an open wound.

In June 2003, the Makati Regional Trial Court ruled with finality against the petition. The judge restored the ban on all motorcycles, regardless of engine displacement. The case found its way to the Supreme Court. In a fascinating decision penned by Justice Antonio Carpio last year, the Court took an unexpected route, partially granting the petition by annulling some department orders that had been issued, but upholding the legality of the original ban against motorcycles on expressways under Administrative Order No. 1. The Court refused to be drawn into a discussion of the rational use of expressways and why motorcyclists can be responsible users of these roads. Instead, in one fell swoop, it flattened all motorcycle distinctions and democratized expressway exclusion.

Discuss the article here.

Very early this morning, at around 0630H, July 28, I got this text message from MCPF Director ATOY STA. CRUZ – “ MMDA returns the ordinance (motorcycle plate no. sticker on helmet) to PNP NCRPO for further study they will not implement the said law”.

I was overjoyed with the news and immediately called up Director ATOY to get more details. He confirmed sending the text message and told me that he heard the news over one of the AM radio stations this morning.

Before requesting MCP main man BIMBO “BoyG” ISIDRO for a news posting on the MCP website, I called up MMDA Chairman Bayani Fernando himself at around 0830H this morning (July 28, 2007) and was able to talk personally to Chairman BF, who confirmed the news.

Chairman Ferndando said that because of various concerns from the motorcycle riding community, the MMDA had indeed returned the proposal to PNP-NCRPO for further study.
In other words : HINDI NA PO MATUTULOY ANG IMPLEMENTATION NG PROPOSED MMDA ORDINANCE NA LAGYAN NG STICKER NG PLATE NO. ANG MGA HELMET NG MGA NAG-MOMOTORSIKLO.

MCPF Director Atoy Sta. Cruz added that according to his high-ranking sources at the PNP NCRPO, the police authorities will submit another proposal to the MMDA and DOTC, involving the use of reflectorized motorcycle vests NATIONWIDE and not only in Metro Manila. These vests will have the plate no., blood type and other important information that will identify the rider.

Director Atoy also said that this is something which the MCPF will be inclined to support because it will be for the safety of the motorcycle rider, and will be a more effective means of curbing crimes committed using motorcycles.

Mabuhay at maraming salamat sa lahat ng mga sumoporta sa MCPF, MCP at sa lahat ng mga tumutol sa panukalang batas ng MMDA ng lagyan ng sticker ang ating mga helmet.

Recently we had a meeting with the PNP-NCRPO the meeting was so successful that there will now be a partnership between MCPF and the pnp to help curb crime in the metro.

With this we need you to update your club directory and even individual members can do this.

The directory will be put in the data base of ncrpo in case there is an emergency in your area, the pnp can call on you and ask for your support acting like eyes and ears for them until they arrive. You will also have a special sticker on your bike stating you are a member of this team. ( The MCPF id is sufficient enough for identification)

Another thing they are asking is …… Since we have already plates on our bikes, they are asking to put it on their proper place which is the back of your bikes. Not on the sides.

Also they said that this suggestion has to come from us since they don’t want to be another Bayani … Hated by the motorcycle community

what they want is a distinguishing mark in the rider’s body like your plate number, club or affiliation say mcpf number _______ para pag may crime sa area alam nila kung sino ang kakampi. We were thinking to encourage MCPF members to put the marks like club or mcpf number, or plate number on reflectorized vests since most of us have reflectorized vest. ( Since MCPF is advocating safety , the vest is a good tool to prevent accident.)

What do you think….Any suggestions???

Post your suggestions in the this forum thread.

Article submitted by Jojo Medina.