Train rules

In everything there truly is an education, even as we build build build. Most of us can’t wait for the time that the Philippines becomes a first world country but, what many should also consider, is the fact that this growth includes a serious and thorough investment on education.

Riding the train may seem easy; however, there are educational aspects on the part of all passengers that must be accomplished. Rules benefit us all. Order is a sign of both development and maturity and this is also very personal. No matter how personal however, everyone must do their part and make the necessary contribution for the common good.

I must say that a sense of nervousness and anxiety usually hit us when it’s time to come on board a train and most of the time, what triggers these feelings revolves around how other people will cooperate. While commuters struggle with long lines or breakdowns, this is only one part of the problem that is being addressed. The other part usually concerns our decorum when actually riding the train. While our government continues to address issues, the other part, the part wherein you and I are active participants when it comes to our behavior, is in turn our personal accountability.

There are certain things that must be given proper respect in order to create a good system for commuters as a whole. Certain things like being mindful of our backpacks so as not to hurt fellow passengers or not talking too loud contribute to this creation of a good system in riding trains. Other things such as lining up and staying in your line also help in speeding up the queuing process. It most of all sends a message of regard for others who have most probably been just as patient in waiting.

Parents must also do some planning before going on trips with their children and not go during rush hour to avoid any unruly experience. Sometimes, people around can get rowdy and this can be a cause of concern for others, especially when it involves foul language. Saying excuse me, on the other hand, is not only considered a kind gesture but, more importantly, it shows respect. Many Filipinos depend on public transport and fortunately these projects are seriously on their way. However, as I always say, our government cannot do everything on their own – our government also needs the rest of us in what I’d like to call a whole-of-people approach.

We all want progress and we want so much of it. In fact, we are so in a hurry that we fail to see other internal issues that need much attention. Even proper hygiene is included in rail safety, more so in a pandemic, and being mindful is not only a big plus but a life saver. The point in all this sits on the fact that all passengers just want to have a relatively pleasant journey…  for the most part.

There are so many other things that commuters need to learn when it comes to rail rules and a campaign in this area can only be accomplished through education. These are things that may and should be included in our school curriculum, beginning with early childhood education. Such lessons can be incorporated in the GMRC and teachers and parents must form a tag team in this area, even at a young age.

As learners grow older, other concepts may be incorporated in their base of learning where, in the end, we develop bigger groups of learners that can eventually pass on their skills. For me and as always, everything is tied up to education, therefore, a collaboration in this area is something that may be further explored. It just takes a little creativity, but it can certainly be done.