(Photo credit: MMDA) 

Yes, you read it correctly! The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Motorcycle Riding Academy offers an exciting opportunity for individuals aged 17 and older to learn motorcycle riding for free. All you need to do is meet the requirements and come equipped with your own gear.

The MMDA Motorcycle Riding Academy commenced its operations on Wednesday, September 27, welcoming both novice riders and those with some experience who wish to strengthen their foundation in motorcycle handling and road safety. 

The academy's primary goal is to raise public awareness about road safety hazards, especially on the bustling streets of Metro Manila. It aims to contribute to the reduction of road accidents by imparting safe riding skills, providing basic emergency response training, and instilling a sense of discipline among motorists.

According to a study conducted by the Asian Development Bank in 2020, entitled, “Growth of Motorcycle Usage in Metro Manila,” it showed a 300,000 increase in the number of registered motorcycles from 2006 to 2015, compared to cars with a slight increase of around 100,000 vehicles only. Likewise in 2022, based on data published by Statista Research Department, the average daily traffic volume of Motorcycles in Metro Manila amounted to 1.6 million, which is slightly higher than that of cars with a total traffic volume of 1.56 million.

With these findings confirming motorcycles as a significant mode of transportation in the region, it is evident that proper training and education of motorcycle drivers should be an industry requirement.

This ambitious endeavor has garnered support from various stakeholders dedicated to improving the services of the Riding Academy. Dashi Watanabe, the head of Watanabe Riding Development and a renowned YouTube vlogger and motorcycle coach, will oversee the training of the academy's instructors. 

Generous contributions from entities like Honda Philippines, Angkas, Joyride, Lalamove, Ropali Motorcycles, the Municipality of Pateros, and government figures such as Department of Interior and Local Government Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr., Senators Sonny Angara, and Bong Go have enabled the academy to provide motorcycle units, helmets, gear, container vans, and tents to facilitate the training.

Enrollment Process Made Easy!

Are you ready to embark on this thrilling journey? Before enrolling, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to balance and ride a bicycle. Additionally, you must procure your own standard full-face helmet, full-finger motorcycle gloves, and rain gear (though a reflective safety vest is optional). 

The academy will provide the motorcycles you'll train on.

Once you've mastered the art of cycling and gathered your gear, the enrollment process is straightforward. Visit our online enrollment form at https://forms.gle/UPPbryVoaKoiyxJE9 to register.

Gather the following essential documents and submit them on your scheduled training day:

Photocopies of your Driver's License or Student's Permit (if available, but not necessarily required)
Barangay clearance
Certificate of Employment (if employed)
Medical Certificate
Waiver/Health declaration (to be filled out at the academy)
Parent's consent (if you're 17 years old)

Unlock a World of Skills in Just Two Days!

The two-day course promises to be a transformative experience. It covers a wide range of topics essential for safe and confident motorcycle riding, including:

• Basic Road Emergency Response
• Road Traffic Rules and Regulations
• Motorcycle Orientation, covering basic parts, control, and operation of motorcycles
• Demonstrations of static and moving positions
• Motorcycle Skills Practice and Demonstration

Upon successful completion of the Basic Motorcycle Rider Course and passing the Motorcycle Riding Skills Test, you will be awarded a Certificate of Completion and an honorary badge to commemorate your achievement.

The MMDA Motorcycle Riding Academy is conveniently located on a vacant property of the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) along Julia Vargas Avenue, at the corner of Meralco Avenue in Pasig City. 

Each batch can accommodate up to 100 participants, so don't miss your chance to enroll and experience the thrill of motorcycle riding like never before. Join us in our mission to promote road safety and become a skilled, responsible rider. (PIA-NCR)