Dual tracks, one city: Reconciling cyclist safety with motorcycle reality

The MMDA's proposal to reallocate portions of Commonwealth Avenue's bicycle lanes has sparked passionate debate.

- GEORGE ROYECA

While we deeply respect cyclist advocacy and sustainable transportation ideals, the current transportation crisis demands a data-driven approach that considers Metro Manila's overwhelming road usage reality. This response presents pragmatic analysis based on empirical evidence and the urgent need to address majority transportation needs while maintaining protection for all vulnerable road users.

Recent traffic volume studies along Commonwealth Avenue and EDSA reveal stark disparities that cannot be ignored when making policy affecting millions of daily commuters. Commonwealth Avenue's southbound direction recorded 77,453 motorcycles compared to 647 bicycles (a ratio of 120:1). The northbound direction shows 55,287 motorcycles versus 670 bicycles (82:1). Similarly, EDSA demonstrates comparable patterns with southbound traffic showing 63,034 motorcycles against 780 bicycles (80:1) and northbound recording 62,695 motorcycles versus 830 bicycles (75:1).

These figures reflect transportation choices of hundreds of thousands of Filipino families who have turned to motorcycles as their primary mobility solution. The 286 percent growth in motorcycle usage over the past decade underscores this transport mode's critical role.

From an economic perspective, motorcycles represent the most accessible private transportation for Filipino families. With only six percent of households owning cars, motorcycles serve as primary mobility solutions for working class, small business owners, delivery personnel and service providers forming Metro Manila's economic backbone. The motorcycle-based delivery economy serves millions daily through food delivery, courier services and e-commerce logistics.