PASIG CITY — With the start of the New Year, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) calls on riders to avoid being a “kamote” (a coined term for reckless riders), and instead be safer and more disciplined motorists.
According to MMDA, proper knowledge of the road is important to avoid collisions, breakdowns, and to protect oneself and others.
The agency advises motorists to include in their resolution their enrollment in the MMDA Motorcycle Riding Academy to acquire proper motorcycle riding skills and promote road safety.
The two-day motorcycle riding course is free and open to motorcycle riders. Interested participants may fill out the form via https://forms.gle/UPPbryVoaKoiyxJE9
Walk-in enrollees are also welcome at the MMDA riding academy located at Julia Vargas corner Meralco Avenue in Pasig City.
Meanwhile, the Department of Health (DOH) noted a total of 1,113 incidents of road crash injuries recorded from Dec. 21, 2025, to Jan. 2, 2026.
According to DOH, some 508 or almost 50% of the cases involved young adults aged 15 to 29 years old. About 965 cases that were logged, or almost 87%, were found not using safety accessories such as helmets and seatbelts.
The health department also reminded motorists to use accessories approved by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), such as helmets, seatbelts, and car seats.
Likewise, always check the vehicle before travel, avoid driving fast, also to avoid driving if under the influence of alcohol or lack of sleep. And also to always follow traffic rules and regulations. (PIA)