Stricter rules sought for kids on motorcycles

CEBU, Philippines — Councilor Jocelyn Pesquera wants to set clearer rules as far as travelling in motorcycles with children in Cebu City is concerned.

Pesquera said no one should be allowed to drive a motorcycle with a child in public roads when traffic is heavy and there is “high density” of moving vehicles, unless the child can reach the standard foot peg with his or her feet comfortably.

She said children below seven years old can be allowed to travel on a motorcycle if the child can reach and grasp the waist of the driver and only if the child wears a standard protective helmet.

“It is imperative that City Ordinance No. 2033 should clearly define the prohibitions, exception and qualifying circumstances for it to be comprehensive and encompassing,” Pesquera said in a resolution.

Under City Ordinance 2033, all children below seven years old are prohibited from riding a motorcycle or any two-wheeled vehicle.

“The carriage of a child or children below seven (7) years of age on board any and all forms of two-wheeled vehicles poses a clear and imminent danger to the life and safety of the child/children,” Pesquera said.

But she said that the city government should also ensure the safety of children who do not have other means of transportation.

“The City of Cebu should pursue a more proactive and preventive approach to secure the safety of passengers, especially children, by regulating the operation of motorcycles along roads and highways,” she added.

One can be exempted, however, if transportation of the child requires immediate attention.

Pesquera proposes that those who violate the new rules, if approved, be made to pay P1,000; P2,000; and P3,000 for first, second, and third offense, respectively.

If a child is injured or dies, Pesquera said the person responsible should be imprisoned for a year.

Several stakeholders like the Cebu City Transportation Office and Angkas are supporting Pesquera’s proposal, which will undergo final deliberation in next week’s regular session of the City Council. — /JMO (FREEMAN)