The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) should be commended for working to do away with the boundary system and giving bus drivers and conductors monthly salaries instead. The scheme will boost the morale of drivers who need not work like rabid dogs, exposing themselves to dirt, dust and pollution in their daily grind. Like regular 8-5 employees, drivers can go home fresher, on schedule, and possibly spend more quality time with their families.
The no-boundary system hopes to improve traffic flow and lessen accidents. However, the riding public should do their share. Regular commuters should learn to sacrifice and walk to the right waiting sheds or terminal and refrain from waiting at no pick-up points along the way.
And for the benefit of the public, the MMDA should answer and clarify these issues:
1. Will MMDA construct additional bus terminals for the convenience of the riding public, especially for passengers who live far from the waiting sheds?
2. Will buses pick up passengers who are waiting in the wrong places?
3. Will bus companies offer the same salary scale, perk, privileges and bonuses to their drivers and conductors?
4. Will drivers and conductors be allowed to hop from one company to another?
5. Will the general public cooperate by waiting only at designated waiting sheds, stations and terminals?
—POMPEYO S. PEDROCHE,
pspedroche@gmail.com