A more "meaningful" use of Road Users Tax

If what some quarters were saying that a big chunk of the proceeds from the Road Users Tax (which reportedly now amounts to billions of pesos) were used and are again poised to be used for political campaign purposes were true, then we better double up on our “Hail Marys” because then we are really being wantonly screwed up from every which way.

These funds can be meaningfully used in so many ways for the betterment of motoring in the country (which should be the biggest benefactor as motor vehicle owners were the ones who dug deep into their pockets to raise them) other than for political purposes.

For one, directional and traffic signage of international standards is wanting in our country. Save for the pink-colored signs that one can see in abundance in Metro Manila, no thanks to the preference and insistence of the present MMDA chairman, directional and traffic signage in National Roads located in the Metro and all over the country should be rationalized and if needed, given a complete overhaul to be more effective and to conform to international standards.

If the current MMDA chairman wants to stick by his preferred pink-colored traffic signs, which should actually be non-existent on our roads based on internationally-accepted standards, then let them stay in Metro Roads only until the end of his incumbency but these signs have no place in our National Roads where the Department of Public Works & Highways (DPWH) should actually reign supreme.

Another meaningful spending of these funds would be to promote road safety. Aside from the seminars and workshops for students and teachers that the Society of Philippine Motoring Journalists (SPMJ) has been holding “free” in schools, that depend heavily on sponsors like Toyota Motor Philippines and Ford Group Philippines for them to be held, there are other laudable projects like those of the Automobile Association of the Philippines (AAP), “Safe Kids” and other private entities or NGOs that could effectively and continuously promote road safety if funded by the government from these funds from the Road Users Tax.

Safety on the road, especially for the children on their way to and from school is everybody’s concern. Our government officials should take it upon themselves to lead the campaign to promote it. And there are private groups and individuals that have taken it upon themselves to tackle the issue. And there are funds that can be legitimately tapped to help the populace stay safe while on the road. Our prayer is not to use these funds for political gains. Those who would will have the blood of innocent children that die on the road due to traffic accidents in their hands.

Or does it matter to you?

New offerings from Ford

Last week’s launch of new models from Ford Group Philippines (FGP) can be summed up in what Rick Baker, FGP president said, “We all know what it’s like to fly business class – it’s the details that make the trip truly special. Today’s business class customers are very discerning, and the new 2009 Ford Expedition and Club Wagon have been upgraded to meet the demands for higher levels of appointment, comfort and convenience.”

The 2009 Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer EL combines bold Ford truck design, functionality and toughness with high levels of interior refinement for consumers who want the flexibility of a full-size SUV. A wealth of new standard convenience options gives the 2009 Expedition a luxurious feel. The Easy Fuel capless fuel system eliminates the inconvenience of forgetting to put the gas cap back on after fueling, and can also help prevent emissions from escaping. Other new standard features include an anti-theft perimeter alarm system. Rain sensing wipers will also be standard, using an advanced optical sensing system to detect how hard rain is falling and consequently, determine when to activate windshield wipers and their speed. Technology upgrades on the 2009 Expedition help keep customers connected with the introduction of Ford SYNC. Developed in partnership with Microsoft, Ford SYNC is a voice-activated, customizable media system that fully integrates Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones and digital media players.

The 2009 Ford E-150 Club Wagon provides the discerning Filipino with maximum space and the highest levels of safety. It features a front leather quad Captain’s chair with a six-way power driver’s seat, a remote keyless entry, leather-wrapped steering wheel with speed control, privacy glass, special two-tone exterior paint, 16-inch forged-aluminum wheels, overhead console with temperature compass and running boards.

The Ford E-150 Club Wagon has been America’s best-selling full-sized van for 28 years.

Hyundai’s new home

HARI, Hyundai Asia Resources, Inc., official distributor of Hyundai vehicles in the country inaugurated its new headquarters, which is now located at the KPMG Centre, 6787 Ayala Avenue, Makati City.

Simultaneous to the inauguration, the Genesis Coupe, a luxury sports sedan that’s equipped with a 3.8-liter Lambda V6 high performance rear-wheel drive engine was also unveiled to the motoring media.

This new offering from Hyundai comes in 3.8L and 2.0L both with automatic and manual transmission and the entry level 2.0L that comes only in manual with price range of from P1.398m to P1.858m.

A quick trip to the nearest Hyundai dealership for a close look see and a test drive is a must to appreciate it better.

Willie does a 10

Congratulations to Autohub on the occasion of their 10th anniversary, which was celebrated at the NBC Tent at the Fort Global City.

This multi-brand dealership concept, which was aggressively pursued by our good friend Willie Tee Ten to an enviable level of success, carries an array of notable automotive brands that include Ford, Hyundai, BMW, Nissan, Chery, JMC, Piaggio, Vespa and Hilera.

Way to go, Willy.

AAP honors motorsports exponents

The 14th Annual AAP (Automobile Association of the Philippines) Motorsports Awards were given out last week at the Valle Verde Country Club in Pasig City.

Awards of recognition for Driver of the Year of the different racing disciplines went to Jody Coseteng for Circuit, Noel Rivera for Slalom, Jonathan Tiu for Drag, Carlos Anton for Hill Climb, Stefano Marcelo for Karting and Reynan Jayme for 4x4 Off Road.

AAP president Gus Lagman and Motorsports Committee chairman Mandy Eduque were on hand to present the awards.

Motoring Tip of the Week

Many of you may not be aware that it’s already the first week of March and summer is only a wink away with the Holy Week scheduled this year in mid April. That means you only have a few more weeks to get your trusty vehicle in tip top condition for the summer trips. You can probably start making sure it’s in shape by checking on your battery. Your vehicle will not function normally with a weak or a broken down battery. And finding this out while in the boondocks is not a very welcome prospect. Have your battery checked now.

Happy Motoring!!!

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