The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has officially opened the Motorcycle Riding Academy. The program aims to provide basic knowledge on how to safely operate a motorcycle through theoretical and practical lectures for free.
The Motorcycle Riding Academy is now open
In doing so, the government agency can help reduce the number of accidents involving motorcyclists. MMDA Acting Chairman Atty. Don Artes believes these incidents happen not just because of lack of discipline but also lack of education, and this academy has been established to address that concern.
The two-day course includes basic road emergency response, road traffic rules and regulations; motorcycle orientation on basic parts; control and operation of motorcycles; demonstration of static position and moving position; and motorcycle skills practice and demonstration.
“Motorcycles are a common mode of transportation in Metro Manila and the rest of the nation, but they are also among the most vulnerable vehicles on the road. The academy will assist in mitigating risks by equipping riders with the necessary knowledge and abilities for riding safely,” said Vice President Sara Duterte.
The Motorcycle Riding Academy wouldn’t be possible without the support from stakeholders. One of these is the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS), which allotted its vacant property along Julia Vargas Avenue corner Meralco Avenue in Pasig City for the training exercises.
The academy aims to educate more motorcyclists
Donations such as motorcycles and helmets from various sectors also helped bolster the program. Honda Philippines, Inc. (HPI) takes part in the academy by donating 21 motorcycles to MMDA for practical training, with 29 more soon to arrive.
“We are also optimistic that this will reduce traffic-related accidents by teaching the Filipino people safe and appropriate driving,” said HPI President Sayaka Hattori.
The Motorcycle Riding Academy is open to anyone aged 17 years and above, accommodating 100 participants per batch. Interested individuals must present documents such as photocopies of their driver’s license or student permit, barangay clearance, certificate of employment (if employed), medical certificate, and waiver. They must also bring their own standard full-face helmet, full-finger motorcycle gloves, and rain gear.
This initiative will help make our roads safer
Participants who complete the training program will receive a certification of completion and a badge. Moreover, the MMDA is in talks with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and Land Transportation Office (LTO) for accreditation of the Academy.
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