Cramped, slow, and occasional breakdowns describe the daily adventures of the average Filipino commuter in the country’s public transportation systems.
In 2016, a motor company survey revealed that three out of ten Filipinos consider commuting as the worst part of their day. With this new bill proposed at the House of Representatives, government officials may soon be required to experience the country’s public transportation problems firsthand.
A lawmaker at the House of Representatives has filed a measure requiring government officials to ride public transportation at least once a month during weekday rush hour, a Philippine News Agency (PNA) report announced.
AANGAT TAYO Rep. Neil Abayon filed House Bill 6195 entitled “Public Servants Commuting via Public Transport Act” which aims to require elected and appointed officials in national and local government offices to ride public transport to and from work at least once a month.
“Public service requires empathy and concerns for the people being served. Public service improves when it is rendered with empathy and compassion,” Abayon said. “The personal, first-hand experience of riding public transportation will enable legislators to gain real world perspectives and inputs in aid of legislation.”
Photo credit: 8list.ph
