Lawmaker wants carpoolers rewarded

MANILA, Philippines – Motorists who carpool may be rewarded with free parking or gas discount if a bill at the House of Representatives becomes a law.

Parañaque City Representative Eric Olivarez filed House Bill 3985, which seeks to give incentives to motorists who volunteer to carpool, or a set-up by which the passengers take turns in driving.

Carpooling, the lawmaker said, may reduce traffic congestion in the city.

“Encouraging private motorists to maximize the number of passengers they accommodate in one private car instead of having a one-car-per person situation will ultimately reduce the congestion on the road,” Olivarez said.

According to the bill,  private vehicles that carry at least four passengers who are licensed drivers may get free parking fees in any establishment, as well as a 20-percent discount in tolls and gasoline stations.

Meanwhile, vehicles that carry four non-driver passengers may get a 50-percent parking fee discount.

These perks may only be availed if they carry their driver’s licenses, the bill read.

The bill prohibits the driver of a vehicle to demand any kind of payment from their passengers. Violators face a punishment of two years imprisonment and a fine of not more than P100,000.

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