Road Warriors: The Challenges of Indigenous Habal-Habal Drivers in Oriental Mindoro, Philippines

Abstract

In the rural areas of the country like Panaytayan, Mansalay, Oriental Mindoro, Philippines, habal-habal drivers give indispensable assistance with transportation. The resistant environment of the local habal-habal drivers in Panaytayan, Mansalay, and Oriental Mindoro is discussed here. The “road warriors” are people who ply rough and dangerous areas making important communications between such people and essential services. Nevertheless, habal-habal driving is a difficult task and drivers encounter various hindrances in bringing people to the research area. The study identified various problems that affect the habal-habal drivers of Panaytayan. Recommendations were put forth for the improvement of conditions of habal-habal service providers and the population in entirety. The data collection method adopted a quantitative approach; involving the administration of questionnaires to the indigenous habal-habal drivers made at the site. Various remedies were suggested for the problems experienced by habal-habal drivers as well as accessibility matters about their destination. These drivers place passenger lives and their own at risk. Regulatory measures are required together will enhance safety and support for them for the benefit of passengers and the communities within this area. Adoption of these recommendations by the local government, as well as other stakeholders, could go a long way in improving the conditions of life for this group of people and ensuring the availability of dependable means of transport in the community.