Promote PH tourism, Duterte encourages bikers

PRRD AT BIKERS' CONVENTION. President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and Special Assistant to the President Christopher Lawrence Go do the President's signature pose with the bikers who joined the 24th Annual Convention of the National Federation of Motorcycle Clubs of the Philippines (NFMCP) at the Peñaranda Park in Legazpi City, Albay on April 21, 2018. (Ace Morandante/Presidential Photo)

LEGAZPI CITY -- President Rodrigo Duterte on Saturday encouraged fellow motorcycle enthusiasts to promote the country's tourism.

“I call on you to support the development of the tourism industry, not only in the Bicol, but the rest of the country, more importantly to do keep in mind it is not just pure adventure when you are on the road, I ask you to promote road safety and observed travel rules, wearing proper protection and be alcohol and drug-free,” the President said during the 24th annual convention of the National Federation Motorcycle Clubs of the Philippines (NFCMP) at Penaranda Park.

Duterte arrived on board the presidential plane around 8 p.m. and went straight to Penaranda Park where he was welcomed by Albay Governor Al Francis Bichara, Legazpi City Mayor Noel Rosal and NFCMP president Jose Marcial Villanueva.

Duterte, a big motorbike rider enthusiast and member of the NFMCP, said riders must promote road safety and observed traffic rules; wear proper protection and veer away from alcohol and illegal drugs.

Speaking before over 3,000 bikers from the Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao, the President asked for the support of all the riders in making the country peaceful and orderly.

"Karamihan sa ating disgrasya (The cause of majority of accidents) is the intake of alcohol and doing motorcycle at the same time, if you cannot take it, do not ride,” he added.

He shared his memorable experience as rider when he travelled the country and experienced the beauty of Mayon Volcano.

“Kaganda ng bayan natin (Our country is beautiful), after I travelled the country”, he said.

The three-day convention was highlighted by a “Unity Ride” of thousands of motorcycle riders on Saturday morning where the bikers negotiated the 50 kilometers Maharlika Highway from Legazpi City Boulevard to 

Misibis Resort in Bacacay and culminate at the Mayon Skyline Park in Tabaco City.

The convention, hosted by the Bicol Steel Horses Club, showcased 2018 models of big motorcycles 

displayed by 10 dealers, display booth of motorcycle accessories including service centers.

The NFMCP convention is a yearly event attended by affiliated motorcycle clubs and individual members all throughout the Philippines. It is a celebration and reunion of all motorcycle clubs and enthusiasts, family and long-time friends.

It was founded in 1994 by Thunderbugs Bacolod, On Any Sunday Riders Davao and Cyclons Cebu. It aims to organize all the motorcycle clubs in the Philippines, promote camaraderie and safe driving.

The President is a member of On Any Sunday Riders Davao. (PNA/By Connie Calipay)