September 26, 8:00 pm
About ready to leave the house to head towards UP and my appointment with the UP Chapel priests who will do a pray over for the event till morning. A few days back, I have told them about out battle against discrimination and that I was going to give a speech to the people who were affected and thousands if not millions more on TV, Newspapers and Radio. So I geared up, got all the papers I printed, got my helmet and went out.
As I stepped out and looked at the sky, I wished that it stayed dry all throughout.
9:00 pm
I got to the chapel and there were three priests waiting for me. They asked me to bring my stuff into a small prayer room where there was some coffee, sandwiches and cookies on the side. They served me coffee for what it seems is going to be one of my longest nights ever. While I was drinking, the priests asked about the event and what we were all fighting for. So I explained everything. While I was talking to them about it, I notice the two priests holding their scapulars and their rosaries and was already praying silently as I was talking to the third priest about what we are fighting for.
The conversation went on through the night as we exchanged thoughts and ideas about the issue.
3:00 am
My worst fear started to happen when I heard the rain falling down. One of the priests said, don’t worry, God is blessing the streets so that everybody will have a safe ride. I relaxed a little after hearing that.
4:00 am
I was getting a little worried again because I could still hear the rain falling. I was near the end of arranging all the documents I had to bring in case a press conference was going to happen. You’ll never know. I was getting more and more nervous as I had fears of the turnout of the motorcade. I just kept on praying. Then a priest brought in a small mattress and a pillow and told me to rest up. They had me lay down and surprisingly, I was in a state of calmness and dozed off into lala land.
7:15 am
The priests woke me up and gave me a cup of tea instead of coffee this time. They said it would give me a better feeling. To my surprise, the rain stopped and the sun was showing it’s face ever so slightly. It felt good and I got excited to see that the weather was cooperating with us. As they walked me out of the chapel and into the place where I parked my bike, I felt relieved. They did a quick blessing ceremony as I was sitting on it. They even blessed my helmet! After a few pats on the back and a good luck from the eldest priest, I started my bike, waved and went on my way.
7:45 am
I was already in Riverbanks mall. Upon seeing that there was nobody there, I proceeded to Shell J. Vargas.
8:00 am
Upon reaching shell, I saw this PGO scooter and a familiar face. It was the camera man of Bikes and he was with a few people. I parked my scooter right beside their van, got my gears off and greeted them. I finally got to meet Sonicboom from the forums! Another big guy was with them who apparently owned the scooter. I was then told that they will be riding with us to cover the whole event from beginning till end. There was a few more people on the side of select so I greeted them and thanked them for joining in.
8:30 am
A few more people started to come in so I took out my ribbons and scissors in case some of them needed more on their bikes. I also fixed and added more ribbons on mine. As I waited for the participants to arrive slowly but surely, I kept wondering where the other groups were. I was sort of expecting a few more from the texts and calls I received the past couple of days before this event. Then, iceroland of HeadStart arrived on his tiny mio sporty. He just came all the way from Pampanga just to cover this event for their show. He told me that he had left a good friend to attend and supervise the motorcade back there. They were expecting a few hundred bikes and cagers to attend the motorcade.
9:00 am
I was already frantically calling the MRO lieutenants back and forth to check on their status and head count. Astek reported a good number. They were already brewing close to a hundred riders already. My first call to don was just a few bikers but the last time I called him, he said there were about 50+ already and they were doing a photo op on site. As for the Cavite group, they have already filled up their meeting place with close to 300 riders! I wish I saw the sheer number of that single group. The Marikina boys also started to arrive. Familiar face since I live in Marikina and a couple of them I have been with for some time already, Ai2 decals and Gani of Santos motorcycle shop.
Then I get a surprising call. Daniel Sunga of the Davao Aguila Riders was on the other line. He asked me the plans for today and that he was also preparing his area in Davao but will be doing the motorcade in the afternoon when he arrives there. I told him that it doesn’t matter what time they do it as long as they do it on this momentous day. He gave his words of encouragement and we exchanged our thank you’s before saying goodbye. I was in total awe from the call and was really happy that one of the most active groups in this fight against the AO gave me a call and told me that he was fully supportive of the MRO. I felt really good after that. Then more and more calls came in from different parts of the country who were reporting in and telling me their projected head count. Then I realized, we have done what we hoped to do. To turn this event into a nationwide, simultaneous motorcade!
9:30 am
I told the group to get ready as we were leaving in 15 minutes. I gassed up and packed my things and talked to the Club 1600 representatives about their plan to go around Pasig to distribute flyers and ribbons. After the short conversation, I called the group together and asked to have a short prayer. A fine man took centre stand and led this wonderful prayer for all of us. I am truly sorry for forgetting your name but you know who you are. Thank you! I then assigned one of the PSRC riders, Jonbaq to spear head the group as I was going to be marshal. I went to one of the Marikina riders, Gani, and assigned him to sweep for us. I then signalled the group to mount up and to get ready to roll out. Before mounting my bike, Sonicboom walked to me and greeted me good luck as he was on his way to another event.
10:00 am
We left J Vargas as a small group of about 20 riders and their back rides and headed off towards Meralco Avenue to get to Ortigas. At first, it was a little disorganized especially when we got to Ortigas where the traffic was so bad. When we crossed EDSA, I signalled our spearhed to do a one lane slow run and stop whenever the traffic in front stops. Before reaching the Greenhills proper, we were one group and the motorcade, although small, now looked organized. We formed a 2 bike abreast formation that extended about 3 car lengths. We rode from Ortigas, onto Balete Drive and we turned right at E. Rodriguez. The sun was high and mighty and I was concerned about the heat getting to the group. So I checked up on them periodically and made sure everybody was alright. As we exited E. Rodriguez, and made our U turn near Welcome Rotonda, I realized that we were already half way through our ride and was nearing our destination.
As we hit Espana, we saw from a distance a huge operation. Men in black shirts with yellow markings on their backs were all over the place. I signalled the group and pointed at the LTO Officers conducting an operation right there along Espana Road! Then the traffic had us stop right at the centre of the place where they were conducting what it seemed like, plate removal from vehicles! I got nervous. So I signalled iceroland to get his camera ready and to shove his camera on their faces when they attempt to apprehend us. As we were patiently waiting for the traffic to move, the chief of the operations, wearing a light blue polo started to walk towards us. I told myself, this is it. Drama! To my astonishment, he just walked through the middle of our motorcade, glaring at the bikes and staring specifically at the loud ones and the ribbons attached to the bikes. He stepped up on the island and took another look at us and crossed towards the other side. He let us go! As we were about to move, I noticed a stack of motorcycle plates on the sidewalk and a few more that one of the guys in black was holding. I felt sorry for the people who got caught and got their plates removed that day. If you are one of them, you should contact me asap!
At this point, my cellphone was already dead and I couldn’t tell the time anymore. As we crossed the cut off to head to head towards Quiapo church, my heart was beating faster and faster. I was praying at this point and asking God to ensure the safety of the riders and that the bigger group of don pangan to be let through the LTO operation in Espana.
As we approached Quiapo, there was a lot of traffic in the area and all I can see were busses and jeeps. I was hoping that we weren’t the first group to arrive since our group was pretty small. When we got to the church, I was astounded by the sheer number of bikes lined up in front of the park. There were layers and layers of bikes all over the place! As I weaved through and found myself a spot inside the park, I let of a sigh of relief as I see over 150 bikes already there on site! People were cheering at every bike arriving and joining us inside the park. It was a sight to behold at least for me.
After a few minutes, don pangan’s group arrived and now, the place was filled up!!! I could say that the number was about 300+ bikes and the plaza was filled up by about 70-75%. I was getting emotional at this point. I said to myself, we have pulled it off. We have done what we have set up to do.
The interviews started almost instantaneously, with people gathering up from all sides trying to catch a glimpse of what is happening and trying to listen in to the message I was trying to deliver on camera. After the interview, I immediately called on don to rally up the press people so we can begin. The press had us positioned for a photo op and got close-ups of bikes with the banners and placards and the entire group with their hands and helmets raised up in the air. After the short photo-ops, I then called upon the riders to assemble for the delivery of the official statement that we wanted the whole nation to hear. As I introduced myself to the people, my heart was thumping over time. I told them that I was happy to see all of them and that I am at a loss of words at what I was looking. The emotions were all over the place and I could feel the energy generating from every rider who came.
As I started the speech, I couldn’t help feel nauseous probably because of the heat of the sun. I tried my best to shout out the statement so that everybody could hear it. As I was reading through, there was a few times where I felt breaking down. I tried my best to keep my composure and kept on reading at the top of my lungs. A few tears let go and I hoped the crown didn’t notice the difference from the sweat flowing from my face. As I got near the end of my speech, I said to myself, I hope we get a good response. After saying the last lines of the statement, the roar of the crowd hit me like an invisible tsunami. People shouting, clapping and cheering all over the place. Then I delivered the last piece of news I had for them. I told them that the LTO has once again opened their doors to us and have invited the participants of the first workshop back for the review of the AO. People started to cheer as they heard the news and it was a sign that what we have been doing is taking effect and is making the LTO realize what they were doing. I then started to deliver the message for the MRO and how we need their continued support in preparation for the worst that may happen. I told them that the registration of the organization is on its last leg and that we would be accepting donations in preparation for the case that we will be filing in case the LTO doesn’t heed our call and grievances. The people showed tremendous support and they were told about the future of the MRO and what we intend to do and how we intend to do it. After a last hurrah from the crowd, we ended the motorcade in a blast of cheers and claps.
This is when I realized that what we have started and what we have done as taken its effect and has gained enough momentum to unify the community. I wish to thank all those who came and who has supported us in this fight. I wish to congratulate the organizers of each area who participated and did their own motorcades in their vicinity. I wish to tell everybody who has spear headed, sweeped and marshalled the event, a good job!
Again, thank you! On behalf of the MRO and MAP, MARAMING MARAMING SALAMAT PO!!! MABUHAY PO TAYONG LAHAT!!! WE WILL PREVAIL!!!
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Friday, September 26, 2008
The MRO's Official Statement... This is our voice!!! This is our stand!!!
As the growth of the motorcycle industry and community in the country is rising in immense proportions, we understand the need to enforce the laws and regulations that ensure order and the safety of all concerned. More and more people have moved to motorcycles as the new and alternative solution to cars and public transportation. It is economical, affordable and it gets you to your destination in less time.
With the creation of AO: AHS-2008-015, a lot of the regulations being proposed are already within the scope of RA 4136. What we need to focus on is the enforcement of these laws and the proper issuance of licenses and registration to all motorists.
However, there have been some additional regulations that were introduced with this AO. We have some concerns as to the basis, implementation and vagueness of these regulations. Our main concern is the possibility of these new regulations to be subject to the possibility of corruption and illegal apprehensions based on the interpretation of the apprehending officers.
We would like to seek clarification and the basis of the implementing rules and regulations of these grey areas of the AO. We are asking for your help in re-evaluating these regulations and to hold its implementation while a proper and more technical study is made to clarify the issues.
I would also like to say that the AO has been a subject of every rider, shop, dealer and manufacturer. This AO has grave effects not only to the community but to the entire industry as well. Small shops and stores will lose their livelihoods, their mechanics, cashiers, assistants and helpers will lose their jobs, the suppliers will lose their means of business, the dealers will have fewer buyers, the manufacturers will have less reason to keep their assembly plants in the country and the government will lose millions upon millions of tax collections from all of the parties concerned thus creating another economic tumble. I feel especially saddened to the people who will be forced to close shops and the employees they will be sending home with no more jobs the next day.
We also feel that the AO is discriminatory, Anti-poor, prejudicial and un-constitutional since it breaks The following laws:
(1) the LTO AO is outside of the scope of RA 4136;
(2) the LTO AO violates Book IV, Chapter 11, Section 50 and Book VII, Chapter 2, Section 9 of the Administrative Code;
(3) the LTO AO violates the Bill of Rights, Sections 1, 2, 4, and 19.1 of the Constitution...
Section 1. No person shall be deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process of law, nor shall any person be denied the equal protection of the laws.
Section 2. The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects against unreasonable searches and seizures of whatever nature and for any purpose shall be inviolable, and no search warrant or warrant of arrest shall issue except upon probable cause to be determined personally by the judge after examination under oath or affirmation of the complainant and the witnesses he may produce, and particularly describing the place to be searched and the persons or things to be seized.
Section 4.No law shall be passed abridging the freedom of speech, of expression, or of the press, or the right of the people peaceably to assemble and petition the government for redress of grievances.
Section 19.
1. Excessive fines shall not be imposed, nor cruel, degrading or inhuman punishment inflicted. Neither shall death penalty be imposed, unless, for compelling reasons involving heinous crimes, the Congress hereafter provides for it. Any death penalty already imposed shall be reduced to reclusion perpetua.
With that said, we the people of the Philippines, humbly ask the officials who govern us to hear our call for equality, freedom and the right to express one’s self. We acknowledge the need to enforce and advocate safety and we are all for that. Given that we do not stop on the rights of the people and their own property.
Instead of taking it to the streets, why not bring us back to the blackboard.
Re-education and not regulation. Equality and not discrimination. Freedom and not oppression. Safety without dictation.
God bless us all!!!
http://www.motorcyclephilippines.com/forums/showthread.php?t=143050
With the creation of AO: AHS-2008-015, a lot of the regulations being proposed are already within the scope of RA 4136. What we need to focus on is the enforcement of these laws and the proper issuance of licenses and registration to all motorists.
However, there have been some additional regulations that were introduced with this AO. We have some concerns as to the basis, implementation and vagueness of these regulations. Our main concern is the possibility of these new regulations to be subject to the possibility of corruption and illegal apprehensions based on the interpretation of the apprehending officers.
We would like to seek clarification and the basis of the implementing rules and regulations of these grey areas of the AO. We are asking for your help in re-evaluating these regulations and to hold its implementation while a proper and more technical study is made to clarify the issues.
I would also like to say that the AO has been a subject of every rider, shop, dealer and manufacturer. This AO has grave effects not only to the community but to the entire industry as well. Small shops and stores will lose their livelihoods, their mechanics, cashiers, assistants and helpers will lose their jobs, the suppliers will lose their means of business, the dealers will have fewer buyers, the manufacturers will have less reason to keep their assembly plants in the country and the government will lose millions upon millions of tax collections from all of the parties concerned thus creating another economic tumble. I feel especially saddened to the people who will be forced to close shops and the employees they will be sending home with no more jobs the next day.
We also feel that the AO is discriminatory, Anti-poor, prejudicial and un-constitutional since it breaks The following laws:
(1) the LTO AO is outside of the scope of RA 4136;
(2) the LTO AO violates Book IV, Chapter 11, Section 50 and Book VII, Chapter 2, Section 9 of the Administrative Code;
(3) the LTO AO violates the Bill of Rights, Sections 1, 2, 4, and 19.1 of the Constitution...
Section 1. No person shall be deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process of law, nor shall any person be denied the equal protection of the laws.
Section 2. The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects against unreasonable searches and seizures of whatever nature and for any purpose shall be inviolable, and no search warrant or warrant of arrest shall issue except upon probable cause to be determined personally by the judge after examination under oath or affirmation of the complainant and the witnesses he may produce, and particularly describing the place to be searched and the persons or things to be seized.
Section 4.No law shall be passed abridging the freedom of speech, of expression, or of the press, or the right of the people peaceably to assemble and petition the government for redress of grievances.
Section 19.
1. Excessive fines shall not be imposed, nor cruel, degrading or inhuman punishment inflicted. Neither shall death penalty be imposed, unless, for compelling reasons involving heinous crimes, the Congress hereafter provides for it. Any death penalty already imposed shall be reduced to reclusion perpetua.
With that said, we the people of the Philippines, humbly ask the officials who govern us to hear our call for equality, freedom and the right to express one’s self. We acknowledge the need to enforce and advocate safety and we are all for that. Given that we do not stop on the rights of the people and their own property.
Instead of taking it to the streets, why not bring us back to the blackboard.
Re-education and not regulation. Equality and not discrimination. Freedom and not oppression. Safety without dictation.
God bless us all!!!
http://www.motorcyclephilippines.com/forums/showthread.php?t=143050
Sunday, September 14, 2008
An open letter and a call for unity... By: Jobert Bolanos (aka click_me)
At the end of the day... As we have gone through all the work, research, information gathering, conversations with individuals, meetings with the groups, the workshop, the slap on the face, the positive and negative reactions and statements, the rumors, the rifts and the actual events that transpired, we are all for one thing... To be as one big community that enjoys our passion, livelihood and the roads...
I don't care about what this or that person says about each other and how things become a big stand off... The goal is the same... One thing is evident... Before we can even be effective in reaching our goal, we have to set aside our differences and our problems towards each other... We all want the same thing... The freedom to live and ride...
We are not doing this for glory or for acknowledgment... Were doing this because we owe it to society and to the community who has led us into the passion of feeling the wind in our faces as we ride...
Now that we are facing this hurdle, we should not look into making each other look bad or saying stuff to discredit each other... The more we do this, the more we destroy our only chance of reaching the goal that we are after...
My call to every single person who rides their motorcycle is to set aside our differences and lets work to achieve what we are all after... Equality, Freedom and Safety on the streets... We owe it to ourselves and everybody around us...
So my dear brothers and sisters, hear me out... Let us unite and work as one... No more rumors, no more shenanigans, no more agendas and no more pointing of fingers... We are a community... We should act towards the same goal and not against each other...
I made mistakes myself and I said some things that were totally uncalled for... I thought of and assumed many things as I went along my way... I am not trying to clean my hands of the dirt that I speak of... In fact, I am apologizing for the wrong things that I have done... I am not trying to seek sympathy... I am merely asking for everybody to sit back, think and ask your self why are we here... What are we after... Personally, I am here because of one thing... I am here because I love to ride and I don't want anybody or anything to stop me from doing what I love...
So for the sake of everybody and the people surrounding us, let us unite and help each other to take back what is rightfully ours with out stepping on anybody's toes...
We are riders... We will prevail...
I don't care about what this or that person says about each other and how things become a big stand off... The goal is the same... One thing is evident... Before we can even be effective in reaching our goal, we have to set aside our differences and our problems towards each other... We all want the same thing... The freedom to live and ride...
We are not doing this for glory or for acknowledgment... Were doing this because we owe it to society and to the community who has led us into the passion of feeling the wind in our faces as we ride...
Now that we are facing this hurdle, we should not look into making each other look bad or saying stuff to discredit each other... The more we do this, the more we destroy our only chance of reaching the goal that we are after...
My call to every single person who rides their motorcycle is to set aside our differences and lets work to achieve what we are all after... Equality, Freedom and Safety on the streets... We owe it to ourselves and everybody around us...
So my dear brothers and sisters, hear me out... Let us unite and work as one... No more rumors, no more shenanigans, no more agendas and no more pointing of fingers... We are a community... We should act towards the same goal and not against each other...
I made mistakes myself and I said some things that were totally uncalled for... I thought of and assumed many things as I went along my way... I am not trying to clean my hands of the dirt that I speak of... In fact, I am apologizing for the wrong things that I have done... I am not trying to seek sympathy... I am merely asking for everybody to sit back, think and ask your self why are we here... What are we after... Personally, I am here because of one thing... I am here because I love to ride and I don't want anybody or anything to stop me from doing what I love...
So for the sake of everybody and the people surrounding us, let us unite and help each other to take back what is rightfully ours with out stepping on anybody's toes...
We are riders... We will prevail...
Friday, September 12, 2008
MRO meeting, Saturday, September 1, 1:00PM in Marikina...
The MRO officers will be meeting again on Saturday, September 13 at exactly 1PM in my house in Marikina...
It is an open meeting so anybody can join...
Please coordinate with don_pangan, freeman010 or H3nr1 so that you can follow them to my place...
I will not post my address for security purposes...
Or you can CALL me so I can tell you the directions... I will not text in the directions to everybody who asks... So please call...
Thanks!
It is an open meeting so anybody can join...
Please coordinate with don_pangan, freeman010 or H3nr1 so that you can follow them to my place...
I will not post my address for security purposes...
Or you can CALL me so I can tell you the directions... I will not text in the directions to everybody who asks... So please call...
Thanks!
Thursday, September 11, 2008
A silent protest!!! Let the nation know!!!
Credit goes out to butznsu for his suggestion...
I call on everybody who rides a motorcycle or a car or even a jeep to get himself a ribbon that is approximately 1/2 inches wide... Color red and black...
For motorcycles, this should be tied on your side view mirrors, dangling about 4-5 inches for visibility...
For cars, the ideal place is to tie the ribbons on your antenna...
For those who commute, tie it on your bag...
This will be a silent protest so when people starts noticing and starts asking questions, we will let them know what the LTO is trying to do to us motorcycle riders...
Hopefully, this move will carry on to the media and some politicians... This will help us in lobbying our protest and intent to recall/amend/clarify the grey areas of the AO in question...
So guys, let's get those ribbons flying to get the people's attention...
THANKYOU!!!
We will prevail!!!
I call on everybody who rides a motorcycle or a car or even a jeep to get himself a ribbon that is approximately 1/2 inches wide... Color red and black...
For motorcycles, this should be tied on your side view mirrors, dangling about 4-5 inches for visibility...
For cars, the ideal place is to tie the ribbons on your antenna...
For those who commute, tie it on your bag...
This will be a silent protest so when people starts noticing and starts asking questions, we will let them know what the LTO is trying to do to us motorcycle riders...
Hopefully, this move will carry on to the media and some politicians... This will help us in lobbying our protest and intent to recall/amend/clarify the grey areas of the AO in question...
So guys, let's get those ribbons flying to get the people's attention...
THANKYOU!!!
We will prevail!!!
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
The aftermath of the September 10 workshop with the LTO... A blow by blow story...
5:45 AM, September 10...
As the sun began to rise and the glare of the sunlight slowly makes me realize the time of the workshop is near us, I can't help but wonder if I will be able to do the job and to preserve the rights of everybody on the streets and fight for every motorcycle rider in the country....
I packed up my stuff, double checked my gear and logged of my station... I told my boss that I am ready to leave the office to fight the biggest fight of my life as a motorcycle rider... Since she has known the advocacy of this issue we are facing, she bid me farewell and good luck...
So I headed down to the basement of my office building and warmed up my motorcycle as I slowly geared up for the ride to the LTO office...
On the road, all sorts of thoughts and ideas come rushing through my head... My life was also literally flashing in front of my eyes as I slowly but surely traverse through the traffic on EDSA... I even thought to my self, am I taking this thing too seriously? My life and my family is already feeling the changes since I started taking up this issue... I even said to my self, what if my family tells me to stop and to go back to being a private person... Will I listen to them or do I continue on to what I have started...
As I arrive, I immediately scan the area for the best possible parking for my motorcycle... As I was parking, I see a familiar face and scooter... Alas, one of my good friends, BoyG has arrived together with me... I felt a sense of relief as his presence brought back the energy I lost through out the night from working... Then I said to my self, yes, I am going to do this and I will continue to do this whatever happens...
We started walking towards the LTO main building when another familiar face greeted us... Mr. Edwin Go, the president of the Motorcycle Dealers Association of the Philippines, greeted us with a warm smile and an excited look on his face... The first thing he said was, "Good morning! Are you ready Jobert?" I proudly said, yes I am ready...
The weeks, days, hours and minutes that have passed since the beginning of this issue suddenly came rushing to me... I thought of all the hard work that me and my brothers in the MRO and MAP did in preparation for this day... And I said to my self, I will not let this day pass without giving it my full effort to all the hard work that everybody has contributed...
As we walk towards the canteen, I was slowly gaining composure and thought of what to do next... I said to myself, I need energy... I need breakfast!!! Upon entering the canteen, I glanced upon Jake Swann and his lovely wife Michelle who is also accompanied by the very famous ASTEK of MEC who has become a part of MRO and MAP... I dropped my gear on the table and headed straight to the food... The smell of freshly cooked hotdogs and eggs gave me a sudden boost so I ordered and got to business...
After eating, Jake asked me how I was feeling and suddenly, like a sniper hitting it's target, my heart began to pump... I am nervous... But I am OK... And it felt strange and good... After eating, we all walked out the canteen and started our way to the LTO main building... As we climbed up the stairs, we were greeted by a couple of MDPPA (Manufacturers) representatives, a representative from Yamaha and my dear friend Don_Pangan who was ready and geared up for battle... Carrying enough paperwork on his backpack that is enough to make an office clerk cry...
We chatted and watched as one by one, the participants of the workshop started to arrive... We exchanged hi's and hello's towards each other and as for every person I have met prior to this day greeted me with a "Are you ready?" question at the end... Now the pressure was starting to build... And I was getting tense... I tried my best not to show it to anybody till Jake came by again and said, "Relax my friend, you will be alright."
As the time grew nearer, and the people started converging, a few more people came... Including a couple of controversial figures that I will not mention anymore out of respect and delikadesa... Now the attention shifts to the LTO personnel as they were trying to get the conference door open... I said to myself, nice way to start the day for the LTO personnel...
The moment they opened the door and called us inside, I immediately stormed in and went ahead of everybody to see whats inside... I saw a welcome table and soon after that, a big stage, with a huge projection monitor waiting for our presentation... I saw a good spot at the front and immediately got our my trusty leather folder and took out all my paper work... As soon as I was done setting up and arranging my paper work, I went over to help Jake's wife in setting up his laptop that I was to use for the presentation... With the cable hooked and the power up, I loaded my power point file and made sure everything was in order...
It took some time for the people to all come in and sign on the attendance sheet for the LTO... Once they all got settled down, Ms. Jacobo, got on the mic and welcomed us all... She then passed on the mic to Jake Swann who was the designated facilitator and told us about the two main agendas... The first was about the AO AHS-2008-015 and the second was the proposal to install a second license plate on our motorcycles... Then Jake told everybody that we will be broken up into groups after we hear the prepared presentation and some body from Safe Kids was going to talk about their stand on the issue of children on bikes...
I was already getting ready to stand up as Jake signaled me to start the presentation when Ms. Jacobo stood up and told Jake that he had the entire floor for the whole morning and said that there will be no more workshop after which she just bolted out and walked out on us... We were all caught by surprise... What the hell is happening? I was astounded by the sudden change of atmosphere and all I can do was stand in awe to what was happening in front of me and everybody else inside the room... As much as I would want to comment on what I just witnessed, thoughts crossed into my mind... Is this it? Are we done? Was this all a joke? Jake then walked up to me and told me to just do the presentation and he will try to see what's going on... So with out hesitating, I went up the pedestal and greeted everybody and just relied on Jake's ability to do damage control...
My introduction was a little weird but I got settled in quite quickly and as each word came out of my mouth... I gave a little speech about the importance of unity and camaraderie amongst the people in the motorcycle industry and community... After establishing our position that we are there to help the LTO, I went straight to business... The beginning of the presentation was going well... First topic was about the purpose and the goal of the presentation and how it is laid out and is intended to enlighten the questions that we are all asking... First off was about "Lane Splitting"... I gave a short discussion as to how it actually protects the riders from other vehicles and how other countries apply the same thing... Next topic was about apparel and how we support the movement to promote standard motorcycle helmets and nothing more... I then moved on to the most crucial and most discussed part of the AO... The modifications... I was initially indicating the parts and accessories mandated by RA 4136 to be installed a working properly on all vehicles including motorcycles...
We talked about the following:
Tires
Excerpts:
As per RA 4136, Article IV, Section 34, Letter (A): Tires of motor vehicles. - No motor vehicle with metallic tires shall be operated upon any public highway, and solid tires whenever used shall be of sufficient thickness to prevent the metal rims thereof from coming in direct contact with the road.
Brakes
Horns
Excerpts:
As per RA 4136, Article IV, Section 34, Letter (B-1): Every motor vehicle shall be provided with a horn or signaling devise in good working order: Provided, however, That no horn or signaling device emitting an exceptionally loud, startling, or disagreeable sound shall be installed or used on any motor vehicle.
All authorized emergency vehicles, such as ambulance and police cars and fire wagons used for emergency calls shall be equipped with a bell, siren, or exhaust whistle of a type approved by the Commissioner, and no such device shall be installed or used in any other vehicle.
Lights or Lamps
Low beam should be adjusted so that it doesn’t create glare when following other vehicles or oncoming road traffic
Front lights should be angled properly
Should be clearly visible from 50 meters or 164 feet away
Excerpts:
As per Vienna Convention for Road Traffic, Chapter II, Section 39: Every motor vehicle, except a cycle, motor-cycle, moped, and every trailer shall be equipped with fixed direction-indicators with flashing amber lights, fitted on the vehicle in even numbers and visible by day and by night to road-users affected by the vehicle's movements.
As per RA 4136, Article IV, Section 34, Letter (F): Additional lamps may be carried provided they comply with the preceding provisions of this section.
As per RA 4136, Article IV, Section 34, Letter (F): Motorcycle and other vehicle lights. - Every motor vehicle of less than one meter of projected width shall be subject to the preceding provisions of this section, except that one headlight and one taillight shall be required. No signal light shall be necessary.
Additional lamps may be carried provided they comply with the preceding provisions of this section.
Every motor vehicle, or whatever style, kind, make, character, or nature, when upon a highway during the hours above-mentioned, whether in motion or not, shall have one or more lights so arranged that the same shall be visible at least fifty meters from the front and the rear of such vehicle.
As I was nearing the end of the lights category of my presentation, I was relieved to see Jake coming back into the conference room but this time, together with a few other people including LTO Commissioner, Roberto Suansing, Senior Supt. Dennis Siervo, chief of the HPG National Capital Region Office, and Daisy Jacobo... I was signaled by Jake to cut the presentation and to pass the mic over to Mr. Suansing...
Mr. Suansing's short speech was enlightening and very positive so to speak... He said that he hopes that the out come of the workshop will give better clarification as we work with them in solving the issues... He then passed the mic back to Ms. Jacobo who then introduced Supt. Siervo...
I was not surprised by the sternness of the HPG Cheif and his mandate to uphold the law... Although he has shown a little err on the side of riders by mentioning the term "criminal elements" a little to many, I personally thought that this person has not met the good side of the community... I stood silently and continued to listen to his remarks... During his small talk, he spoke of the apprehensions they did during the past few weeks on motorcycles and 4 wheeled vehicles alike... He assured us that in his branch of the PNP, there is no discrimination on bikes and that we can take a look for ourselves that there are actually more cars impounded in Crame than any other vehicles... One thing caught my attention though... He also mentioned that their group started apprehending motorcycles with rear sets... Due to the position of the rider on the bike, it gave him the idea that these bikers are actually intending to race on the streets... Is this for real?!? Since when did the LTO pass the torch on to the PNP?!? I thought the LTO is the only ones who are supposed to do the apprehensions?!? The initial statement was only the LTO deputized agents are allowed to do this?!? Now they suddenly become automatically deputized with out us knowing about it?!? At this point, I already became doubtful of the whole situation...
After a few more topics and a few questions were addressed by the participants, the mic was placed back in Ms. Jacobo's hands... She all of a sudden began prepping for the division of the participants for the actual workshop session... Hey wait a minute, I haven't finished my presentation... I then walked over to Ms. Jacobo and asked her politely if I could possibly finish my presentation since it basically talks about the issues that are to be tackled in the workshop... To my surprise, she shot me down by calling my presentation a waste of her time and announced and asked the people in the room if they would rather start the workshop or listen to the presentation... The thing is, my presentation is the workshop in it-self and talks about what we are asking to clarify... Then she blurted out that we have a time limit and that we are rushing for time... She said that we needed to finish by 12 and she practically gave the people no choice but to agree with her to start the group assembly...
I was distraught... I was talking about it already... All the hard work and the issues we studied about suddenly became a picture of a toilet bowl flushing... From this point, I then realized that she didn't want to hear it at all... When in fact, it is the same exact thing that was the basis for the groups to tackle and give recommendations for... In fact, at the end of the group discussions, I realized how everybody in the workshop was on the same page as the presentation it self... We could have saved them the effort and just did a whole group discussion right after the presentation... But they had to do it their way and the presentation had to be put aside...
At this point, I was ready to lay down my arms... Then I said to my self, what the heck... I'll just try to run down the group discussions based on my presentation...
I was part of group 4... We were all given a piece of paper, a ball pen, a piece of manila paper and a pentel pen... Nice... It's like an activity in school... Anyway, as our group coursed through the issues, we were one with our recommendations and suggestions on each topic... About the "lane splitting", "protective devices", "modifications" and "additional license plates"... We all came to an agreement that lane splitting should be allowed because it protects us from harm on the streets... Protective devices should only be the mandatory motorcycle helmets, nothing more, nothing less... The regulation of modifications should be done during registration, allowing the BPS, DTI and LTO check and give approval to the parts being sold in the market, promoting the certification of shops to perform these modifications and last but not the least, to take the apprehension of riders off the streets... And finally, to consider the further study in the question of supply and demand for the plates and the who will be shouldering the cost of the so called "front plates"... I was tasked by my group to do the presentation on behalf of group 4... As I said my piece, I tried my best to plug in some of the important aspects of the presentation the MAP, MRO, MRC worked on tirelessly...
As we listened to every group talk about the issues they wanted to address and what their recommendations were, we were basically in agreement and in harmony that the apprehension based on the grey areas of the AO should stop and should be done a different way... Although each group said it a different way, the general thought is the same... At this point, my anger and frustration for being shot down in the midst of my presentation slowly disappeared... Why? Because I realized that the people who were there were after the same thing... To re-iterate the mandate and to amend or suspend the AO while it is still being defined or given an implementing rules and regulations as to specific parts which should or should not be regulated... Each group said their piece and from then on, we were already working as one and our stand was all the same... Now the question that lingers is, will the LTO take it into consideration and will they actually use the material gathered in fixing the AO of it's grey areas...
Here are some of the stuff I noticed during the group discussions... We were initially told that we had until 12NN to do the group study and create recommendations that will be presented during lunch... After a few minutes into the session, we were cut short by Ms. Jacobo and were told that she had changed her mind and that we only had 25 minutes to complete the activity... I mean what the hell?!? Now my doubts about the sincerity of the LTO only grew bigger and bigger... After each group has passed their recommendations, Ms. Jacobo told us that she has collected all the papers and that she will be giving it to a technical working group who will work on them?!? Oh my GOD!!! I thought we were the technical working group?!?
Shortly thereafter, a short Q&A session was facilitated by MS Jacobo herself... Mr. Edwin Go then raised the most crucial question of them all... "What are we to do while the AO is being reviewed and fixed? Is there a possibility that we put this AO into a hold status so that we get to protect the riders from being scrutinized, apprehended and fined unfairly because of this AO?" I was astounded by the reply and was greatly disappointed that after the unanimous testaments by the people inside the room about how people are being apprehended and being denied registration, she said it is all hearsay until she is given hard evidence of the events that we are all crying foul for... She was being hard on the point that without proof or documentation that what we are saying is true, then there is no need for us to throw questionable incidents relating to the apprehensions and registry denials influenced by the AO... For one, I personally thought of her way of shooting every question down with another question as a complete and total disregard of our call to sit down and work together in making this AO how it should be... A clear and properly defined IRR as to the promotion of equality, safety and freedom in the roads and on our machines... One of the lines she blurted out that I can't seem to shake off my head is, "If you can't show me hard evidence, kumain na lang kayo jan!"... So much for that I guess...
As I quietly sat on a chair and recollected everything that has transpired, I can't help but wonder where we were in terms of positioning ourselves in the face of the LTO... Although it has been established that all the groups who participated were united into the movement to clear the AO of it's grey area, I can't help but wonder if it was enough for the LTO to actually do something about it... All we can do now is to wait and see what they do to separate the right from wrong in the adverse effects to the community and the industry through this AO... As to the timeline before we hear something from them, we shall still seek the compilation of hard evidence of the corruption and wrong interpretation of the enforcers who uses the AO against us...
As far as the work of the MAP and MRO is concerned, we have only just begun... We shall not stop here and we shall continue to fight for our rights...
I would like to thank and congratulate the participants of the workshop who has done a tremendous job in working to get their recommendations and voices heard... We have to stay as one and we have to watch out for the things to come...
Thank you to everybody who has supported us and we hope that you will still continue in supporting our movement in seeking better governance in the streets and the agencies concerned...
Although, a part of me feels that I have failed the community by being unable to deliver the message that we wanted to show the LTO, I hope you all understand that we will not back down even if the events in the LTO weren't completely favorable... We will continue and we will prevail no matter what the cost...
For those who wish to get a copy of the presentation, I will be giving MCP a copy that will be made available to everybody via download... Although a lot of my discussions with in that presentation is not written, you may request a meeting or conference with us so that we can deliver to you our position and stand that we share with the rest of the industry and community... You can course your invitations through the MRO sub forums or simply contact me, don_pangan, Jake Swann, ASTEK, H3nr1, BoyG, freeman010 and the other clubs who has seen and listened to the presentation... We will be more than happy to visit you or welcome you here in my house for the presentation...
Thank you and may God bless us all!!!
As the sun began to rise and the glare of the sunlight slowly makes me realize the time of the workshop is near us, I can't help but wonder if I will be able to do the job and to preserve the rights of everybody on the streets and fight for every motorcycle rider in the country....
I packed up my stuff, double checked my gear and logged of my station... I told my boss that I am ready to leave the office to fight the biggest fight of my life as a motorcycle rider... Since she has known the advocacy of this issue we are facing, she bid me farewell and good luck...
So I headed down to the basement of my office building and warmed up my motorcycle as I slowly geared up for the ride to the LTO office...
On the road, all sorts of thoughts and ideas come rushing through my head... My life was also literally flashing in front of my eyes as I slowly but surely traverse through the traffic on EDSA... I even thought to my self, am I taking this thing too seriously? My life and my family is already feeling the changes since I started taking up this issue... I even said to my self, what if my family tells me to stop and to go back to being a private person... Will I listen to them or do I continue on to what I have started...
As I arrive, I immediately scan the area for the best possible parking for my motorcycle... As I was parking, I see a familiar face and scooter... Alas, one of my good friends, BoyG has arrived together with me... I felt a sense of relief as his presence brought back the energy I lost through out the night from working... Then I said to my self, yes, I am going to do this and I will continue to do this whatever happens...
We started walking towards the LTO main building when another familiar face greeted us... Mr. Edwin Go, the president of the Motorcycle Dealers Association of the Philippines, greeted us with a warm smile and an excited look on his face... The first thing he said was, "Good morning! Are you ready Jobert?" I proudly said, yes I am ready...
The weeks, days, hours and minutes that have passed since the beginning of this issue suddenly came rushing to me... I thought of all the hard work that me and my brothers in the MRO and MAP did in preparation for this day... And I said to my self, I will not let this day pass without giving it my full effort to all the hard work that everybody has contributed...
As we walk towards the canteen, I was slowly gaining composure and thought of what to do next... I said to myself, I need energy... I need breakfast!!! Upon entering the canteen, I glanced upon Jake Swann and his lovely wife Michelle who is also accompanied by the very famous ASTEK of MEC who has become a part of MRO and MAP... I dropped my gear on the table and headed straight to the food... The smell of freshly cooked hotdogs and eggs gave me a sudden boost so I ordered and got to business...
After eating, Jake asked me how I was feeling and suddenly, like a sniper hitting it's target, my heart began to pump... I am nervous... But I am OK... And it felt strange and good... After eating, we all walked out the canteen and started our way to the LTO main building... As we climbed up the stairs, we were greeted by a couple of MDPPA (Manufacturers) representatives, a representative from Yamaha and my dear friend Don_Pangan who was ready and geared up for battle... Carrying enough paperwork on his backpack that is enough to make an office clerk cry...
We chatted and watched as one by one, the participants of the workshop started to arrive... We exchanged hi's and hello's towards each other and as for every person I have met prior to this day greeted me with a "Are you ready?" question at the end... Now the pressure was starting to build... And I was getting tense... I tried my best not to show it to anybody till Jake came by again and said, "Relax my friend, you will be alright."
As the time grew nearer, and the people started converging, a few more people came... Including a couple of controversial figures that I will not mention anymore out of respect and delikadesa... Now the attention shifts to the LTO personnel as they were trying to get the conference door open... I said to myself, nice way to start the day for the LTO personnel...
The moment they opened the door and called us inside, I immediately stormed in and went ahead of everybody to see whats inside... I saw a welcome table and soon after that, a big stage, with a huge projection monitor waiting for our presentation... I saw a good spot at the front and immediately got our my trusty leather folder and took out all my paper work... As soon as I was done setting up and arranging my paper work, I went over to help Jake's wife in setting up his laptop that I was to use for the presentation... With the cable hooked and the power up, I loaded my power point file and made sure everything was in order...
It took some time for the people to all come in and sign on the attendance sheet for the LTO... Once they all got settled down, Ms. Jacobo, got on the mic and welcomed us all... She then passed on the mic to Jake Swann who was the designated facilitator and told us about the two main agendas... The first was about the AO AHS-2008-015 and the second was the proposal to install a second license plate on our motorcycles... Then Jake told everybody that we will be broken up into groups after we hear the prepared presentation and some body from Safe Kids was going to talk about their stand on the issue of children on bikes...
I was already getting ready to stand up as Jake signaled me to start the presentation when Ms. Jacobo stood up and told Jake that he had the entire floor for the whole morning and said that there will be no more workshop after which she just bolted out and walked out on us... We were all caught by surprise... What the hell is happening? I was astounded by the sudden change of atmosphere and all I can do was stand in awe to what was happening in front of me and everybody else inside the room... As much as I would want to comment on what I just witnessed, thoughts crossed into my mind... Is this it? Are we done? Was this all a joke? Jake then walked up to me and told me to just do the presentation and he will try to see what's going on... So with out hesitating, I went up the pedestal and greeted everybody and just relied on Jake's ability to do damage control...
My introduction was a little weird but I got settled in quite quickly and as each word came out of my mouth... I gave a little speech about the importance of unity and camaraderie amongst the people in the motorcycle industry and community... After establishing our position that we are there to help the LTO, I went straight to business... The beginning of the presentation was going well... First topic was about the purpose and the goal of the presentation and how it is laid out and is intended to enlighten the questions that we are all asking... First off was about "Lane Splitting"... I gave a short discussion as to how it actually protects the riders from other vehicles and how other countries apply the same thing... Next topic was about apparel and how we support the movement to promote standard motorcycle helmets and nothing more... I then moved on to the most crucial and most discussed part of the AO... The modifications... I was initially indicating the parts and accessories mandated by RA 4136 to be installed a working properly on all vehicles including motorcycles...
We talked about the following:
Tires
- Motorcycle tires meant for road use
- No competition tires (Slicks)
Excerpts:
As per RA 4136, Article IV, Section 34, Letter (A): Tires of motor vehicles. - No motor vehicle with metallic tires shall be operated upon any public highway, and solid tires whenever used shall be of sufficient thickness to prevent the metal rims thereof from coming in direct contact with the road.
Brakes
- Brake Rotors
- Caliper
- Drum Brakes
- Hydraulic brake hose
Horns
- Should not be sirens or make equivalent tones used by emergency vehicles
Excerpts:
As per RA 4136, Article IV, Section 34, Letter (B-1): Every motor vehicle shall be provided with a horn or signaling devise in good working order: Provided, however, That no horn or signaling device emitting an exceptionally loud, startling, or disagreeable sound shall be installed or used on any motor vehicle.
All authorized emergency vehicles, such as ambulance and police cars and fire wagons used for emergency calls shall be equipped with a bell, siren, or exhaust whistle of a type approved by the Commissioner, and no such device shall be installed or used in any other vehicle.
Lights or Lamps
- Lights (head, brake, license plate light, auxiliary lights, signal lights)
- Headlights
Low beam should be adjusted so that it doesn’t create glare when following other vehicles or oncoming road traffic
Front lights should be angled properly
- Brake lights
Should be clearly visible from 50 meters or 164 feet away
- Taillights or license plate lights
- Auxiliary lights
- Signal lights
Excerpts:
As per Vienna Convention for Road Traffic, Chapter II, Section 39: Every motor vehicle, except a cycle, motor-cycle, moped, and every trailer shall be equipped with fixed direction-indicators with flashing amber lights, fitted on the vehicle in even numbers and visible by day and by night to road-users affected by the vehicle's movements.
As per RA 4136, Article IV, Section 34, Letter (F): Additional lamps may be carried provided they comply with the preceding provisions of this section.
As per RA 4136, Article IV, Section 34, Letter (F): Motorcycle and other vehicle lights. - Every motor vehicle of less than one meter of projected width shall be subject to the preceding provisions of this section, except that one headlight and one taillight shall be required. No signal light shall be necessary.
Additional lamps may be carried provided they comply with the preceding provisions of this section.
Every motor vehicle, or whatever style, kind, make, character, or nature, when upon a highway during the hours above-mentioned, whether in motion or not, shall have one or more lights so arranged that the same shall be visible at least fifty meters from the front and the rear of such vehicle.
As I was nearing the end of the lights category of my presentation, I was relieved to see Jake coming back into the conference room but this time, together with a few other people including LTO Commissioner, Roberto Suansing, Senior Supt. Dennis Siervo, chief of the HPG National Capital Region Office, and Daisy Jacobo... I was signaled by Jake to cut the presentation and to pass the mic over to Mr. Suansing...
Mr. Suansing's short speech was enlightening and very positive so to speak... He said that he hopes that the out come of the workshop will give better clarification as we work with them in solving the issues... He then passed the mic back to Ms. Jacobo who then introduced Supt. Siervo...
I was not surprised by the sternness of the HPG Cheif and his mandate to uphold the law... Although he has shown a little err on the side of riders by mentioning the term "criminal elements" a little to many, I personally thought that this person has not met the good side of the community... I stood silently and continued to listen to his remarks... During his small talk, he spoke of the apprehensions they did during the past few weeks on motorcycles and 4 wheeled vehicles alike... He assured us that in his branch of the PNP, there is no discrimination on bikes and that we can take a look for ourselves that there are actually more cars impounded in Crame than any other vehicles... One thing caught my attention though... He also mentioned that their group started apprehending motorcycles with rear sets... Due to the position of the rider on the bike, it gave him the idea that these bikers are actually intending to race on the streets... Is this for real?!? Since when did the LTO pass the torch on to the PNP?!? I thought the LTO is the only ones who are supposed to do the apprehensions?!? The initial statement was only the LTO deputized agents are allowed to do this?!? Now they suddenly become automatically deputized with out us knowing about it?!? At this point, I already became doubtful of the whole situation...
After a few more topics and a few questions were addressed by the participants, the mic was placed back in Ms. Jacobo's hands... She all of a sudden began prepping for the division of the participants for the actual workshop session... Hey wait a minute, I haven't finished my presentation... I then walked over to Ms. Jacobo and asked her politely if I could possibly finish my presentation since it basically talks about the issues that are to be tackled in the workshop... To my surprise, she shot me down by calling my presentation a waste of her time and announced and asked the people in the room if they would rather start the workshop or listen to the presentation... The thing is, my presentation is the workshop in it-self and talks about what we are asking to clarify... Then she blurted out that we have a time limit and that we are rushing for time... She said that we needed to finish by 12 and she practically gave the people no choice but to agree with her to start the group assembly...
I was distraught... I was talking about it already... All the hard work and the issues we studied about suddenly became a picture of a toilet bowl flushing... From this point, I then realized that she didn't want to hear it at all... When in fact, it is the same exact thing that was the basis for the groups to tackle and give recommendations for... In fact, at the end of the group discussions, I realized how everybody in the workshop was on the same page as the presentation it self... We could have saved them the effort and just did a whole group discussion right after the presentation... But they had to do it their way and the presentation had to be put aside...
At this point, I was ready to lay down my arms... Then I said to my self, what the heck... I'll just try to run down the group discussions based on my presentation...
I was part of group 4... We were all given a piece of paper, a ball pen, a piece of manila paper and a pentel pen... Nice... It's like an activity in school... Anyway, as our group coursed through the issues, we were one with our recommendations and suggestions on each topic... About the "lane splitting", "protective devices", "modifications" and "additional license plates"... We all came to an agreement that lane splitting should be allowed because it protects us from harm on the streets... Protective devices should only be the mandatory motorcycle helmets, nothing more, nothing less... The regulation of modifications should be done during registration, allowing the BPS, DTI and LTO check and give approval to the parts being sold in the market, promoting the certification of shops to perform these modifications and last but not the least, to take the apprehension of riders off the streets... And finally, to consider the further study in the question of supply and demand for the plates and the who will be shouldering the cost of the so called "front plates"... I was tasked by my group to do the presentation on behalf of group 4... As I said my piece, I tried my best to plug in some of the important aspects of the presentation the MAP, MRO, MRC worked on tirelessly...
As we listened to every group talk about the issues they wanted to address and what their recommendations were, we were basically in agreement and in harmony that the apprehension based on the grey areas of the AO should stop and should be done a different way... Although each group said it a different way, the general thought is the same... At this point, my anger and frustration for being shot down in the midst of my presentation slowly disappeared... Why? Because I realized that the people who were there were after the same thing... To re-iterate the mandate and to amend or suspend the AO while it is still being defined or given an implementing rules and regulations as to specific parts which should or should not be regulated... Each group said their piece and from then on, we were already working as one and our stand was all the same... Now the question that lingers is, will the LTO take it into consideration and will they actually use the material gathered in fixing the AO of it's grey areas...
Here are some of the stuff I noticed during the group discussions... We were initially told that we had until 12NN to do the group study and create recommendations that will be presented during lunch... After a few minutes into the session, we were cut short by Ms. Jacobo and were told that she had changed her mind and that we only had 25 minutes to complete the activity... I mean what the hell?!? Now my doubts about the sincerity of the LTO only grew bigger and bigger... After each group has passed their recommendations, Ms. Jacobo told us that she has collected all the papers and that she will be giving it to a technical working group who will work on them?!? Oh my GOD!!! I thought we were the technical working group?!?
Shortly thereafter, a short Q&A session was facilitated by MS Jacobo herself... Mr. Edwin Go then raised the most crucial question of them all... "What are we to do while the AO is being reviewed and fixed? Is there a possibility that we put this AO into a hold status so that we get to protect the riders from being scrutinized, apprehended and fined unfairly because of this AO?" I was astounded by the reply and was greatly disappointed that after the unanimous testaments by the people inside the room about how people are being apprehended and being denied registration, she said it is all hearsay until she is given hard evidence of the events that we are all crying foul for... She was being hard on the point that without proof or documentation that what we are saying is true, then there is no need for us to throw questionable incidents relating to the apprehensions and registry denials influenced by the AO... For one, I personally thought of her way of shooting every question down with another question as a complete and total disregard of our call to sit down and work together in making this AO how it should be... A clear and properly defined IRR as to the promotion of equality, safety and freedom in the roads and on our machines... One of the lines she blurted out that I can't seem to shake off my head is, "If you can't show me hard evidence, kumain na lang kayo jan!"... So much for that I guess...
As I quietly sat on a chair and recollected everything that has transpired, I can't help but wonder where we were in terms of positioning ourselves in the face of the LTO... Although it has been established that all the groups who participated were united into the movement to clear the AO of it's grey area, I can't help but wonder if it was enough for the LTO to actually do something about it... All we can do now is to wait and see what they do to separate the right from wrong in the adverse effects to the community and the industry through this AO... As to the timeline before we hear something from them, we shall still seek the compilation of hard evidence of the corruption and wrong interpretation of the enforcers who uses the AO against us...
As far as the work of the MAP and MRO is concerned, we have only just begun... We shall not stop here and we shall continue to fight for our rights...
I would like to thank and congratulate the participants of the workshop who has done a tremendous job in working to get their recommendations and voices heard... We have to stay as one and we have to watch out for the things to come...
Thank you to everybody who has supported us and we hope that you will still continue in supporting our movement in seeking better governance in the streets and the agencies concerned...
Although, a part of me feels that I have failed the community by being unable to deliver the message that we wanted to show the LTO, I hope you all understand that we will not back down even if the events in the LTO weren't completely favorable... We will continue and we will prevail no matter what the cost...
For those who wish to get a copy of the presentation, I will be giving MCP a copy that will be made available to everybody via download... Although a lot of my discussions with in that presentation is not written, you may request a meeting or conference with us so that we can deliver to you our position and stand that we share with the rest of the industry and community... You can course your invitations through the MRO sub forums or simply contact me, don_pangan, Jake Swann, ASTEK, H3nr1, BoyG, freeman010 and the other clubs who has seen and listened to the presentation... We will be more than happy to visit you or welcome you here in my house for the presentation...
Thank you and may God bless us all!!!
Saturday, September 6, 2008
September 10, 2008 LTO Workshop... What to expect...
Good day brothers and sisters,
As part of our preparation for the September 10 workshop with the LTO, we would like to clarify some hard facts as to how this is going to be played.
For those who have kept close contact with the activities and meetings of the MAP/MRO, we have already explained the goals and intentions that we carry with us on that day. We have also done every bit of information gathering and studied every aspect of the AO. From the legal, to safety, to environmental, to rights, to self expression, fairness and down to the technical aspects of it.
For those who we haven't been able to reach out to, there has been talk of the workshop as being an open door event. Contrary to that belief, the LTO has allowed 25 slots that will consist of the Manufacturers (MDPPA), Dealers (MDAP), after market suppliers and retailers, professional mechanics, Safety and Education, apparel specialists and the community (MAP, MRO and MCP). These slots were given specific invitations as coordinated through the appointed facilitator of the meeting, Mr. Jake Swann. He was appointed by the LTO and MDPPA to head off the said workshop.
As much as we would like to bring people in, we have to keep the group small in order for us to get the work done in an orderly fashion. The different sectors of the community and the industry are already working together by coordination and transparency towards each other. After this weeks meeting with the MDPPA and MDAP, we have established the fact that we are set to one direction and goal. Because of that, we have a very strong force behind us that will be working together in clearing this AO of it's gray area.
I am speaking right now on behalf of the people who have stepped forward and has given their time and effort in doing the research, study and understanding of every bit and piece that we will be and might be talking about in the said workshop. And it is through my own eyes that I have seen the dedication and persistence of every member of the technical working group that has met every now and then in preparation for the workshop. I am proud to say that we have not let any page remain unturned and we have made sure that every ounce of info from the people we talked to, the topics raised in the forums and the opinions that were shared will be the driving force of our presentation and call for September 10.
We are now in the starting grid and we are gearing up to take the challenge of taking this race with fire and determination in our hearts. Rest assured, we will be doing everything that we can in the most peaceful and civil way possible to bring us the most favorable results. But, please, bear in mind that this will be the beginning of more things to come. And we will not stop with this AO. We will take on other things ahead as long as there is a need to face the issues being thrown at our faces.
As much as I would like to talk to you about the prime motive and subject of our presentation and directives that will be laid out on the table on September 10, we would like to keep our aces covered so that the other party will not know what we have in store for them. I humbly ask that you give us the opportunity to do what we came here to do for the community and everybody else concerned.
We would also like to ask that we keep our selves from being overcome by our emotions and let us all remain calm and wait for the outcome of the said workshop. Let us go to the LTO and enter their doors with dignity and respect so that we deliver what we have worked hard for.
Please, my dear brothers and sisters, let us have your support and your prayers that we may be successful in this fight for our rights and our freedom to express ourselves. Let us show them that we are one and that we are united in this endeavor. We don't have to be physically present but we can all be together in spirit and in belief that we shall PREVAIL!!!
Special thanks to:
Jake Swann
Bimbo Isidro
Don Pangan
Astek Ang
Arnel Cabrera
Noel Villarosa
Henry Reyes
These are the people who have given their time, dedication and effort in our preparation for September 10.
Let us give them our sincere thanks to what they have done for the community.
Kudos to all of you!
And to MDPPA, MDAP, MCP and the entire forum community who have shared all their thoughts and opinions in the threads. Thank you!
And last but not the least, to all the people who have shown support and who has listened to us during these trying times. Thank you for inviting us over your respective areas and for hearing our message that we will bring to the authors of the AO.
Thank you and may GOD bless us all!!!
Jobert Bolanos
MAP / MRO
As part of our preparation for the September 10 workshop with the LTO, we would like to clarify some hard facts as to how this is going to be played.
For those who have kept close contact with the activities and meetings of the MAP/MRO, we have already explained the goals and intentions that we carry with us on that day. We have also done every bit of information gathering and studied every aspect of the AO. From the legal, to safety, to environmental, to rights, to self expression, fairness and down to the technical aspects of it.
For those who we haven't been able to reach out to, there has been talk of the workshop as being an open door event. Contrary to that belief, the LTO has allowed 25 slots that will consist of the Manufacturers (MDPPA), Dealers (MDAP), after market suppliers and retailers, professional mechanics, Safety and Education, apparel specialists and the community (MAP, MRO and MCP). These slots were given specific invitations as coordinated through the appointed facilitator of the meeting, Mr. Jake Swann. He was appointed by the LTO and MDPPA to head off the said workshop.
As much as we would like to bring people in, we have to keep the group small in order for us to get the work done in an orderly fashion. The different sectors of the community and the industry are already working together by coordination and transparency towards each other. After this weeks meeting with the MDPPA and MDAP, we have established the fact that we are set to one direction and goal. Because of that, we have a very strong force behind us that will be working together in clearing this AO of it's gray area.
I am speaking right now on behalf of the people who have stepped forward and has given their time and effort in doing the research, study and understanding of every bit and piece that we will be and might be talking about in the said workshop. And it is through my own eyes that I have seen the dedication and persistence of every member of the technical working group that has met every now and then in preparation for the workshop. I am proud to say that we have not let any page remain unturned and we have made sure that every ounce of info from the people we talked to, the topics raised in the forums and the opinions that were shared will be the driving force of our presentation and call for September 10.
We are now in the starting grid and we are gearing up to take the challenge of taking this race with fire and determination in our hearts. Rest assured, we will be doing everything that we can in the most peaceful and civil way possible to bring us the most favorable results. But, please, bear in mind that this will be the beginning of more things to come. And we will not stop with this AO. We will take on other things ahead as long as there is a need to face the issues being thrown at our faces.
As much as I would like to talk to you about the prime motive and subject of our presentation and directives that will be laid out on the table on September 10, we would like to keep our aces covered so that the other party will not know what we have in store for them. I humbly ask that you give us the opportunity to do what we came here to do for the community and everybody else concerned.
We would also like to ask that we keep our selves from being overcome by our emotions and let us all remain calm and wait for the outcome of the said workshop. Let us go to the LTO and enter their doors with dignity and respect so that we deliver what we have worked hard for.
Please, my dear brothers and sisters, let us have your support and your prayers that we may be successful in this fight for our rights and our freedom to express ourselves. Let us show them that we are one and that we are united in this endeavor. We don't have to be physically present but we can all be together in spirit and in belief that we shall PREVAIL!!!
Special thanks to:
Jake Swann
Bimbo Isidro
Don Pangan
Astek Ang
Arnel Cabrera
Noel Villarosa
Henry Reyes
These are the people who have given their time, dedication and effort in our preparation for September 10.
Let us give them our sincere thanks to what they have done for the community.
Kudos to all of you!
And to MDPPA, MDAP, MCP and the entire forum community who have shared all their thoughts and opinions in the threads. Thank you!
And last but not the least, to all the people who have shown support and who has listened to us during these trying times. Thank you for inviting us over your respective areas and for hearing our message that we will bring to the authors of the AO.
Thank you and may GOD bless us all!!!
Jobert Bolanos
MAP / MRO
Friday, September 5, 2008
MAP, MRO, MCP, MDPPA and MDAP have joined hands!!!
Good day brothers!
I know it's been a while since our last update. I hope you forgive me.
Ever since the start of this week, we have been working hard to get prepared for the workshop next week. Our team met with the Technical Working group representing the community at my house at around 1PM. Jake Swann soon followed even with the heavy down pour that day. It was probably one of the longest working days we've had since this all started.
We basically prepared the presentation for the modifications issue that was one of the listed issues in the AO. We had to go through countless pages of technical info, International standards and regulations in different countries. We've learned so much that at the end of the day, our minds were practically melted and we were dead tired.
Inspite the work load, we were able to take the time to talk about the AO with a surprise visit from somebody working for the Philippinestar website. She was given the info that our group was working hard in fixing the said AO that is hounding the motorcycle community. Although she has gone through numerous individuals in her quest to gather all the info she can get for the article, we made sure that our info was backed up by actual data that we gathered from all our research and practical tests. And we are happy to have been able to answer all her questions and give her enough data to run her article.
At the end of the day, we were able to come up with a solid outline and a presentation that will hopefully open the minds of the LTO personnel. The presentation came to a major test yesterday when we met with the MDPPA and MDAP. At first, we were quite nervous of the reaction and stand of the Manufacturers and the Dealers as to where they are on the AO. We were hoping to get them to side with us.To our surprise, after the presentation, MDPPA was actually on the same direction as we are. MDAP was apprehensive at first but after hearing what we had prepared, everybody agreed on one thing. That the amendment of the AO and steering it towards a different direction is the main purpose and the goal that has to be achieved on September 10. Now that we have the Manufacturers, Dealers and the representatives of the community on the same page and direction, we have a greater chance of taking the chequered flag on the workshop in just a few days time.
MAP, MRO and MCP have been working tirelessly in getting the best defense and offense for the said workshop. Now that we have the Manufacturers and the Dealers as allies, we hope to be able to conquer and finally fix the gray areas of the AO.
Thank you MDPPA and MDAP for hearing our side and letting us know that our goals and mind set are going towards the same direction.
Together we stand! And together, we will all prevail!!!
I know it's been a while since our last update. I hope you forgive me.
Ever since the start of this week, we have been working hard to get prepared for the workshop next week. Our team met with the Technical Working group representing the community at my house at around 1PM. Jake Swann soon followed even with the heavy down pour that day. It was probably one of the longest working days we've had since this all started.
We basically prepared the presentation for the modifications issue that was one of the listed issues in the AO. We had to go through countless pages of technical info, International standards and regulations in different countries. We've learned so much that at the end of the day, our minds were practically melted and we were dead tired.
Inspite the work load, we were able to take the time to talk about the AO with a surprise visit from somebody working for the Philippinestar website. She was given the info that our group was working hard in fixing the said AO that is hounding the motorcycle community. Although she has gone through numerous individuals in her quest to gather all the info she can get for the article, we made sure that our info was backed up by actual data that we gathered from all our research and practical tests. And we are happy to have been able to answer all her questions and give her enough data to run her article.
At the end of the day, we were able to come up with a solid outline and a presentation that will hopefully open the minds of the LTO personnel. The presentation came to a major test yesterday when we met with the MDPPA and MDAP. At first, we were quite nervous of the reaction and stand of the Manufacturers and the Dealers as to where they are on the AO. We were hoping to get them to side with us.To our surprise, after the presentation, MDPPA was actually on the same direction as we are. MDAP was apprehensive at first but after hearing what we had prepared, everybody agreed on one thing. That the amendment of the AO and steering it towards a different direction is the main purpose and the goal that has to be achieved on September 10. Now that we have the Manufacturers, Dealers and the representatives of the community on the same page and direction, we have a greater chance of taking the chequered flag on the workshop in just a few days time.
MAP, MRO and MCP have been working tirelessly in getting the best defense and offense for the said workshop. Now that we have the Manufacturers and the Dealers as allies, we hope to be able to conquer and finally fix the gray areas of the AO.
Thank you MDPPA and MDAP for hearing our side and letting us know that our goals and mind set are going towards the same direction.
Together we stand! And together, we will all prevail!!!