More traffic solutions

Kay Rivera’s “Gridlock and misery” (Opinion, 11/17/17), was very nice!

But let me take issue with Rivera’s idea that private vehicles cannot be reduced in number while the public transportation system stinks. I believe that if we substantially reduce the number of private vehicles, the traffic congestion will evaporate and buses will be able to make three or four times more round trips. They will then be able to transport more passengers. Given these choices — owning a car or not owning a car but with a decongested traffic situation — I would opt for the latter.

Phasing out jeepneys and taxicabs more than 15 years old is a good move. I suggest that private vehicles more than 15 years old should also be phased out. The importation of second-hand vehicles should also be banned. The practice in Singapore and other developed countries should also be adopted in the Philippines: 1) One can buy a vehicle only if he acquires from the government a certificate of entitlement, which becomes available every time a vehicle is junked or taken out of circulation; and 2) A vehicle entering business districts should be subjected to payment of fees.

I also think that private vehicles, especially those that are old and consume large amounts of fuel, should be subjected to higher annual registration fees and taxes. Moreover, one should be permitted to acquire a vehicle only if he has rights to a parking space.

RENE TORRES, Makati City