NATION

Bosita seeks stricter EDSA busway rules, backs motorcycles in bike lanes

Carl Magadia

In a radio interview on Friday, 1-Rider Partylist Rep. Bonifacio Bosita pushed for stricter enforcement of EDSA Busway restrictions, insisting that no one should be allowed to pass through the lane. At the same time, he advocated for allowing motorcycles to use bicycle lanes during certain hours of the day — a proposal that contradicts his stance on strictly regulating transport policies.

Bosita, a retired police officer and motorcycle rights activist, emphasized that authorities should set an example by following traffic laws. He criticized public officials who have been using the EDSA Busway for "emergency reasons," arguing that no one should be exempt.

“If the authorities do not have the discipline to follow or respect the law, then we should not expect our motorists to follow the rules,” he said.

Despite his strict position on the EDSA Busway, Bosita took a more flexible approach when discussing Metro Manila’s traffic situation. He proposed that bicycle lanes be opened to motorcycles during certain hours, citing the low volume of cyclists using these lanes.

“We should have window hours for bikers. We should allocate the bulk of the time to motorcycle riders,” Bosita stated, suggesting that motorcycles be prioritized over bicycles during peak hours.

Bosita’s firm opposition to unauthorized vehicles in the EDSA Busway contrasts with his willingness to adjust bike lane regulations to accommodate motorcycles.

As a motorcycle rights advocate, Bosita has consistently championed policies that benefit riders, citing safety and convenience concerns. He has called for designated motorcycle lanes and criticized the driver’s license issuance process, calling it corrupt and incompetent.

“As long as you have money, even if you don’t know anything, you’ll get a [driver’s] license,” he remarked, blaming the system for the rise of reckless or "kamote" riders.

Beyond traffic policies, Bosita also suggested adjusting the working hours of government agencies as a possible solution to Metro Manila’s congestion, though he did not provide further details on implementation.

Bosita, who gained national attention for his 2021 clash with MMDA enforcers over a traffic violation, is currently running for a Senate seat in the 2025 elections. His mixed approach to transport policy is likely to be scrutinized as he campaigns for higher office.