Ventura 1
ENG 112
Proposal Argument Essay
30 November 2017 Traffic Problems in Manila
“Filipino time” is a term linked for Filipinos always being late. This term is most popular
in Manila where heavy traffic congestion is highly experienced. For instance, traveling sixteen
miles will approximately take about four hours when it should only take about forty-five
minutes. Keeping in mind, that the Philippines has a slower speed limit. In addition, people
would need to get up and prepare for school or work three to four hours ahead of time only to get
to their destination on time. The traffic congestion should account for the traffic law violators,
bumper to bumper traffic, faulty light rail systems, unfinished roadworks, street vendors and
various public transportations such as public and private buses, Tricycles, Pedicabs, Jeepneys
and taxis. Despite numerous efforts of improving the traffic situation in Manila over the years,
nothing has worked so far. Looking at the big picture, traffic congestions causes delay and if
people were late for work or school, deliveries not being distributed on time then it would cause
a negative effect on the economy as a whole. So, ultimately the traffic problems in Manila should
be resolved once and for all. There’s nobody to be blamed for except the Filipinos themselves.
Although resolving the traffic problems in Manila may seem to require a lot of work, nothing
will be impossible if these given proposals were put in place. First, a harsher punishment for
violating traffic rules should be implemented. Secondly, the government must provide a class or
program that would go over basic education about traffic rules and regulations. And lastly, the
Land Transportation Office, the one responsible for all transportation laws should implement a
scheduled time arrival and departure for public transportations.
The first thing that needs to change in Manila is its citizen’s lack of discipline. Everyday
both motorists and pedestrians violate traffic laws causing more traffic jams. Pedestrians are seen
Ventura 1
ENG 112
Proposal Argument Essay
30 November 2017 Traffic Problems in Manila
jaywalking while motorists are also caught disregarding traffic rules. The Jeepneys are known
for being the “king of the road” in the Philippines, they are reckless and inconsiderate of whom
they share the road with. Jeepney and bus drivers would pick up passengers wherever and
whenever they want to, causing an interruption to the traffic flow. A couple years ago, with the
hopes of repairing what is causing the traffic jams in Manila, designated lanes and stations for
the buses and Jeepneys were provided to eliminate congestion and provide convenience when
loading and unloading passengers. There should be a stricter penalty in place such as point
system where every time a violation is made, one should pay and points would be deducted from
