Councilor Jessica “Cookie” Bonguyan, chairperson of the Committee on Public Works and Highways, called on Tuesday for stronger action against illegal drag racing following a fatal multi-vehicle collision along the Davao-Bukidnon Road in Barangay Catalunan Pequeño, Davao City, that claimed the lives of a couple early Monday morning.
During her privilege speech, Bonguyan condemned the suspected illegal drag race that allegedly led to the crash.
According to the Davao City Police Office (DCPO), the victims died on the spot after their motorcycle was struck by another motorcycle.
Initial investigations indicated that two of the motorcycles involved, including the one that struck the couple, were allegedly engaged in an illegal drag race when they collided.
“What a tragic loss,” Bonguyan said.
She stressed that illegal street racing is not merely a traffic violation but a serious threat to public safety.
“What some view as a midnight thrill is a deadly gamble with public safety. Our public roads are meant for safe travel, not personal speed tracks,” Bonguyan said.
The councilor also pointed out that the noise from modified motorcycles disturbs nearby communities, while reckless speeding puts innocent road users at risk.
She said loud engines and roaring exhaust systems disrupt the sleep of working families and infants and pose a serious danger to the public.
“Innocent pedestrians, commuters, and law-abiding motorists face grave danger from sudden, high-speed recklessness. We cannot wait for more preventable crashes, injuries, and lost lives before we draw a permanent line,” she said.
Bonguyan urged parents to monitor their children’s use of vehicles at night and encouraged residents to report areas where illegal racing frequently occurs.
“Protecting our community is a shared responsibility. Parents, please guide your children and monitor how they use their vehicles at night. Neighbors, please continue to report illegal racing hotspots to local authorities,” she said.
She called on Dabawenyos to work together to keep the city’s roads safe.
“Let us all reclaim our streets. Let us keep Davao City a safe, orderly, and peaceful home for every citizen,” she said.
