Retired police colonel and 1-Rider partylist Representative Bonifacio Bosita expressed his intention to continue advocating for solutions to transportation sector issues if he secures a seat in the Senate.
In the Bakit Ikaw: The DZRH Job Interview on Friday, Bosita confidently asserted that during his time as a congressman, he was diligent and worked tirelessly both in and out of Congress, pointing to the legislative measures he pushed for the welfare of motorists.
However, he pointed out that many of the bills he filed remain pending and have not progressed in the Senate.
"Hindi po kailangan ng motorista si Col. Bosita, ang kailangan ng motorista [ay] batas," said Bosita.
"Nakikita ko po na kung nanatili pa ako sa Kongreso, mauulit ang nakaraan for three years na walang batas na maipapasa si Col. Bosita, hanggang Kongreso lamang," he added.
In addition to advocating for transportation-related laws, he emphasized that if he wins a Senate seat, he will prioritize legislation to address various national issues.
Reflecting on his 30 years in public service, he pointed out that he has seen many challenges that need to be solved, noting that some issues can be easily resolved with the right dedication and love for the community.
Strategies to promote responsible driving and strict adherence to traffic law
Illegal use of EDSA Busway
Bosita emphasized that with the EDSA Busway in place, those prohibited by law and policy from using the lane should still be restricted, even if they hold high-ranking positions, and the public must comply with these rules.
He also pointed out that if authorities and public officials fail to show discipline and respect for the law, it is unlikely that motorists and others will follow the rules.
Kamote riders
"Ang anumang problema, ‘pag hindi mo alam ang ugat, mahirap mong maresolba," Bosita stated.
The lawmaker reiterated that he believes Filipinos are inherently good, and that the root cause of the so-called undisciplined motorists lies in the previous leadership of the Land Transportation Office (LTO).
"Marami ang nagdaang dekada na, basta may pera ka kahit wala kang alam, magkakalisensya ka," Bosita explained.
"Ibig sabihin po, itong mga sinasabi nating undisciplined motorists and riders, biktima lang ito," he added.
Furthermore, he highlighted that the solution to this issue lies in proper and effective road safety education and enforcement.
Bosita stated that, if elected to the Senate, his first priority will be to review the LTO's mandate concerning the road safety education of motorists.
Citing the current efficient management of the LTO, he mentioned that he is aware of certain accredited training schools that have been suspended or had their licenses to operate revoked due to some irregularities.
"Ang pangunahing bibigyan natin ng atensyon ay ‘yung road safety education. Second ‘yung enforcement. Dapat po matiyak na bawat enforcer, bawat pulis na masasangkot kaugnay sa traffic enforcement, totoong marunong at competent," said Bosita.
He reiterated that to prevent any inconvenience to the riding public, it is essential that those responsible for traffic law enforcement carry out their duties as mandated.
Possible resolution to traffic in Metro Manila
Bosita stated that he believes the key solution to Metro Manila's traffic problems lies in the establishment of a long-term program to improve public transportation.
Moreover, he concurred with the earlier suggestion to adjust the working hours of employees in government agencies in Metro Manila.
He also affirmed that motorcycles should be provided with their own lane to prevent them from weaving through traffic and suggested that bicycle lanes be made shared, with designated window hours for their use.
"Kung sasang-ayon ang nakararami, magkaroon ng window hours lang para sa bikers [bikers lane]. Kung saan mapag-aralan na iyong malaking oras na nasasayang ito maidagdag sa motorcycle riders," he added.
Response to criticisms against him
In response to criticisms that he is using social media just to gain popularity, Bosita acknowledged that he knows that even when doing good, the public may not always be fully satisfied.
Furthermore, as an engineer, he emphasized that his principles are rooted in mathematics, noting that more than 99% accept his advocacy, allowing him to "sleep peacefully at night."
"Ang pananaw ko kasi as long as na alam mong tama ang ginagawa mo, ‘wag kang mag-alala," he added.
Stance on Transport Modernization Program
Bosita clarified that he is not questioning the modernization program itself, but rather aims to raise the concerns voiced by many, particularly regarding the flawed implementation of the program.
He further emphasized that the program was not thoroughly studied, resulting in the purchase of low-quality imported vehicles. This has led to drivers struggling with high daily target amounts, leaving them with insufficient earnings.
"Sumatotal po hindi po tayo sang-ayon sa implementation nito and ako po nagpapasalamat sapagkat hindi tayo nakakaramdam ng mga reklamo patungkol dito sa ngayon," said Bosita.
"Dapat maipatupad ng tama itong modernization program, huwag iphaseout ang mga pampasaherong jeep natin," he added.
Additionally, he suggested that the country should support locally made products, particularly those that manufacture jeepneys.
Viewpoint on corruption in the country
Meanwhile, he recognized the vast extent of corruption in the country, noting that it cannot be entirely attributed to political dynasties. However, he made it clear that he does not support political dynasties.
To address the issue, he reiterated that improving the quality of life for every Filipino is essential, so they no longer have to depend on corrupt politicians, ensuring that only the right and deserving individuals are chosen for positions.
"Kapag naiangat mo ang buhay ng mga Pilipino, hindi na nila sasamabahin ang isang korap na politiko," he added.
Decision to not sign the impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte
Bosita clarified that he knows both the Marcos and Duterte families, but he is not close to either of them. He pointed out that his choice not to sign the impeachment is based solely on his principles and personal beliefs.
He also questioned whether impeaching Vice President Sara Duterte would actually resolve any issues, noting that if a decision is to be made, action should be taken to address the underlying problems.
Furthermore, he pointed out that loyalty should lie with the people, not with anyone holding a position of power.
"Bakit ikaw?"
"Ramdam ko ang dinadanas na pighati at paghihirap ng ating mga kababayan at bilang dating sundalo, police, naging congressman, kilalang-kilala ko ang aking sarili," said Bosita.
Ultimately, the senatorial aspirant emphasized that he has principles, conviction, and love for the people, and that these qualities will remain integral to his character.
Prior to his position in the House of Representatives, he held the rank of retired lieutenant colonel in the Philippine National Police (PNP) and was also an officer of the Highway Patrol Group (HPG).
