I read about another bus crash, this time a horrid one involving Dela Rosa Transit crushing a private vehicle into the back of another bus operator on EDSA. Apparently it is now so common that people just stand around taking cell phone photos rather than look on in horror. At what stage will the Philippine government stop and realise that the bus industry needs to change dramatically and consider rail investment instead?
Former MMDA chairman Bayani Fernando, following an overseas trip, brought forth the idea of government-run buses with drivers getting wages instead of a commission system that encourages the lunatic element that leads to these accidents.
While on face value, the idea of government running buses may be a good one, can they be even trusted to do it? They can’t be trusted with the more suitable rail industry, so what of the buses.
Brad Peadon, (Philippine Railway Historical Society)