Not a ‘Kwentong Kutsero’: Sam ‘SV’ Verzosa helps struggling kutsero in his journey

INQUIRER.net / 06:54 PM July 12, 2024

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Meet Francis Dela Torre, a 24-year-old “kutsero” from Tondo, Manila. He provides transportation services using a traditional “kalesa” – a two-wheeled horse-drawn carriage. His journey began at the age of 13 when he started working in the stables, inspired by his father, who is also a kutsero.

Francis started his work by grooming the horses, checking their manes and feet, bathing, and feeding them. His dedication to his family led him to stop his education and fully commit to helping at the stables. Despite trying other jobs, including working as a delivery boy for a trucking service in Malabon and applying for a job in Divisoria during the pandemic, Francis always found his way back to the horses he loves.

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In his trade, Francis rents the horse for his kalesa. “Depende po ang renta sa kita namin,” Francis explained, “Kapag maganda-ganda po ang kita namin minsan P1,000 o P800. Kapag wala po nasa P300.”

Everyday, he starts by ensuring his kalesa is in good condition, followed by feeding and grooming his horse.

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Public service program Dear SV host Sam “SV” Verzosa spent a day with Francis, immersing himself in the kalesa industry. SV learned firsthand the challenges Francis faces, such as the dangers of riding a horse on the busy streets of Manila, the uncertainty of tourist demand, financial struggles, and caring for his sister who is undergoing dialysis.

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SV and Francis rode through the streets of Manila, visiting landmarks like Luneta Park and Intramuros. Touched by Francis’ story, SV provided the dela Torre family with a sari-sari store package to restart their mini store at home, a grocery package, and committed to covering the dialysis treatment for Francis’ sister.

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Francis’ dedication to his family and his craft as a kutsero exemplifies the resilience and heart of the Filipino spirit while preserving the historical significance of kalesa in our culture and tradition.