Just the first step
Setting a minimum wage for bus drivers is a good start in solving the seemingly endless traffic congestion along Edsa. But I find it problematic that the government is counting on changes in driver behavior as a reaction to the fixed-salary scheme. Driver discipline is dependent on conditioning, and this conditioning happens on the streets, not in the drivers’ minds or consciences.
Why do we need to wait for a positive reaction from drivers and expect them to be responsible and to consistently follow traffic rules?
I suggest that the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (or whichever government agency is responsible) use the height of billboards and buildings along Edsa—by installing CCTV cameras strategically atop the billboards in busy bottlenecks—to allow for a clearer view of the plate numbers of buses plying Edsa. In addition, the plate numbers should be painted on the buses’ respective roofs.
This setup will allow for a more credible and organized review of erring drivers. Also, the tenants or employees of buildings can help by taking, with their cellphone cameras, videos of erring drivers/buses and post the videos on the MMDA Facebook account or website.
I think now is the time for government officials to embrace social media and technological advances.
—CHRISTOPHER ALLEN SAMSON,
123 Pleasure St. Annex,
1618 Better Living,
Parañaque City
