Valderrama: Conversations with taxi drivers
WHAT can you expect when you're inside a taxi? Typically, you might find yourself listening to rants on an AM radio station or enjoying religious and love songs on FM. You often end up conversing with the taxi driver, which can be quite enlightening for several reasons.
During these conversations, you become aware of the latest news updates — whether they are true or not — and it’s up to you to discern the information. You also hear about the drivers’ life stories, particularly their struggles to make ends meet. Most importantly, you gain insight into what’s happening on the roads.
So, what do you hear from drivers most often?
Life is hard. Prices are rising. Politics are chaotic. Traffic is everywhere. There's more road construction. Often, traffic lights are either malfunctioning or improperly placed.
The last one, though, is more intriguing and somewhat true.
One driver pointed out the need for a traffic light at the intersection of Maa Bypass Road, Gem Village, leading to Ma-a, and the bridge going to San Rafael Subdivision toward the downtown area.
This intersection, with its wide road and heavy traffic, is prone to accidents and becomes congested during rush hours. The driver compared it to other intersections with traffic lights that are located too close together, especially on Elpidio Quirino Avenue, which seems unnecessary.
On a positive note, he commended the long-awaited traffic light that was installed at the intersection leading from St. Michael Subdivision to Ma-a, as that area has become increasingly congested.
Another driver highlighted the traffic jams in front of Davao City National High School — the most populated public high school — during dismissal time. He said the number of traffic enforcers and policemen is insufficient to manage the traffic, especially when students cross the street without hesitation.
He suggested that the local government could either install a traffic light to regulate the flow of traffic and help educate students on when to stop and go, or construct an overpass to improve vehicle and pedestrian traffic.
Well, this isn’t a bad idea, considering that the school has between 10,000 and 15,000 students and is located in a busy area along F. Torres St. and Tionko Avenue. Traffic is heaviest during dismissal time.
A driver from Metro Manila, who is now residing in Davao City, mentioned that it's high time for traffic lights at intersections and main roads to include timers. This could help both drivers and pedestrians know how much time is left, allowing them to prepare accordingly. A countdown timer would be quite beneficial.
Another interesting observation is the construction of many condominiums and buildings, which is a clear indication of progress. He said it’s good to start improving the roads to accommodate the growing population.
As more people buy cars and migrate to the city, the need for improved traffic management becomes more pressing. If widening the main roads is not an option due to existing establishments, then enhancing traffic lights and implementing better policies become essential.
Well, it’s a good thing to talk with simple people with fiery ideas. These can spark innovations and solutions. Because why not?