If you frequent areas like Ortigas and Bonifacio Global City (BGC) on the regular, chances are you’ve noticed that motorized kick scooters are becoming an increasingly common sight.
It makes sense if you think about it: They’re relatively affordable (some branded models sell for just around P20,000), pretty compact, and, most important, harmless to the environment (if you use an electric-powered unit). All that said, owners of kick scooters should know the limits of the vehicle, as well as the risks involved in riding one.
One person recently drew the attention of Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) special operations commander Bong Nebrija, after he was caught riding a motorized kick scooter along EDSA. Nebrija scolded the scooter rider for operating his vehicle along the nation’s busiest thoroughfare, and without proper signaling devices to boot.
“Ang sinasabi ko sa inyo, do not take that risk,” he explained to the rider. “Pwede naman kayo mag-inner road if you want, but not on EDSA.” He gestured to the buses on the road, reiterating, “I’m just after your safety,” and adding that the Land Transportation Office (LTO) will soon come up with regulations for motorized kick scooters.
“Kaya kita pinapara is because of your own safety. Not on EDSA, please. Kung motor nga dito, pag nadidisgrasya ng bus, you can just imagine what would be the result. How much more kung ganyan ang dala mo?
“I’m not discouraging you to use it. I’m just telling you, use it on the sidewalk or use it [on] the inner roads.”
Nebrija makes a good point, but at the same time, the lack of viable transportation alternatives is the reason many commuters have turned to this new mode of getting around. Do you agree with Nebrija’s sentiments? Let us know what you think in the comments.
