Motorcyclists launch unity ride for equality

MANILA, Philippines — At least 5,000 motorcyclists joined yesterday the “National Unity Ride for Equality” to protest regulations imposed by national and local government agencies against riders.

Organized by the Riders of the Philippines and Motorcycle Rights Organization, the riders gathered at the People Power Monument along EDSA in Quezon City at around 6 a.m. before proceeding to Mendiola.

“The unity ride is a show of force among motorcycle riders, who are making a stand against discriminatory policies and regulations implemented by national and local government agencies,” the group said.

They cited local ordinances, which ban backriders in Caloocan and Mandaluyong City as well as the requirement of open face helmets, proposed mandatory helmet registration and confiscation of motorcycle accessories such as auxiliary lights. 

The group also denounced the alleged tagging by police of motorcycle riders as criminals.

“Motorcycle riders are not criminals,” they said.

The group also pushed for the legalization of motorcycle as a public conveyance.

They said a motorcycle is able to convey a passenger from Trinoma in Quezon City to Buendia in Makati in less time compared to a bus or Metro Rail Transit. 

 A recent Social Weather Stations survey showed that 32 percent of Filipino households own motorcycles.

The survey also showed that 51 percent of households that own motorcycles use these for livelihood or as a mode of transportation.