TECH4GOOD
In a recent interview before the Holy Week rush, President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. has advised all travelers to stay safe on the road, follow traffic rules, and avoid becoming kamote drivers.
A new breed of urban legend has emerged in the bustling chaos of Philippine streets: The kamote riders. It will not be difficult for anyone to notice them today. Usually attributed to reckless motorcycle riders, the term also applies to egoistic drivers of other vehicles who would get involved in a road rage situation, which is becoming common today.
Infamous for their unpredictable maneuvers, disregard for road rules, and aggressive behavior, these individuals have become a source of frustration and fascination for other drivers, commuters, and pedestrians alike. Whether weaving through tight traffic with reckless abandon or flaunting creative driving tactics, kamote behavior is as much a cultural phenomenon as it is a traffic concern.
The term “kamote” is the Tagalog word for sweet potato, and it is used as a cultural metaphor to imply that someone is slow or not good at something, especially in school. But who are these daring drivers, and what fuels their chaotic presence on Philippine roads?
How do you describe a kamote driver? These drivers usually run red lights, drive against the flow of traffic (counter-flowing), overtake in blind spots, ignore signal lights or double yellow lines, and ignore lane markings. They often drive at excessive speeds, weave in and out of traffic dangerously, and make sudden, unpredictable maneuvers. They are aggressive drivers who seldom exhibit road courtesy, often leading to road rage situations.
Kamote riders are often seen without proper safety gear, such as wearing appropriate helmets, gloves, long sleeves, and footwear. They may carry more passengers than allowed, including children, or transport unsecured and potentially hazardous cargo. Some may have excessively loud mufflers or engage in other disruptive behaviors on the road to show off.
Some do not even bother to wear their seatbelts properly or take other safety precautions. While not exclusive to this group, some kamote riders and drivers may operate vehicles while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Some may feel entitled on the road, especially those associated with influential politicians, becoming aggressive or confrontational with other motorists or traffic enforcers.
These are just some of the common descriptions of kamote drivers. I have had my fair share of mind-boggling encounters with these creatures, making driving very stressful. Every sensible driver today sees them as a nuisance and a danger on Philippine roads. It may even encourage other motorists to violate traffic laws, leading to a general breakdown of road discipline. Their unpredictable and dangerous behavior, including a mindless sense of invincibility, can create a sense of fear and anxiety for other drivers, motorcyclists who follow the rules, and pedestrians.
Addressing this deeply ingrained problem requires a comprehensive and sustained effort that tackles enforcement and education. Stricter and more visible law enforcement is paramount. A more significant presence of traffic enforcers, equipped with technology like CCTV cameras to monitor and apprehend violators, can be a significant deterrent. Zero tolerance for blatant violations and substantial fines and penalties, including license suspension or revocation for repeat offenders, must be consistently implemented. Targeted operations in known kamote hotspots, such as those in the Marilaque area, can also yield positive results.
However, enforcement alone is not enough. A fundamental shift in mindset and road culture is essential, and this can only be achieved through comprehensive education and awareness campaigns. Mandatory and standardized rider and driver training programs that go beyond the basic mechanics of operating a vehicle and deeply instill road safety principles, traffic laws, and responsible behavior are crucial.
Public awareness campaigns utilizing various media platforms can highlight the dangers of reckless driving and promote a culture of respect and consideration among road users. Engaging local communities and integrating road safety education into school curricula early can help cultivate responsible behavior.
We should also consider addressing obvious gaps in road infrastructure. Ensuring roads are well-marked and have clear and visible traffic signs can help reduce accidents. Maybe creating dedicated motorcycle lanes in high-traffic areas could keep kamote riders separate from other vehicles.
Ultimately, transforming our roads into safer spaces requires cooperation from everyone because road safety is a shared responsibility, and no one should be left to bear the consequences of careless driving alone. We need to start being serious about solving this malady. Using kamote as a metaphor for bad behavior is unfair to the sweet potato I am so fond of.
(The author is an executive member of the National Innovation Council, lead convener of the Alliance for Technology Innovators for the Nation (ATIN), vice president of the Analytics and AI Association of the Philippines, and vice president of UP System Information Technology Foundation. Email: [email protected])