By Nimfa L. Estrellado Mayor L.A. Ruanto speaks before members of Infanta’s Tricycle Operators and Drivers Association (TODA) during the lau...
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| Mayor L.A. Ruanto speaks before members of Infanta’s Tricycle Operators and Drivers Association (TODA) during the launch of the TODARESCUE public safety program at the Northern Quezon Auditorium. (Northern Quezon Athletic Association) |
INFANTA, Quezon – Tricycle drivers in Infanta will train as first responders under a new public safety initiative launched by Mayor Lord Arnel "L.A." Ruanto. The program, personally funded by the mayor, aims to equip the town’s Tricycle Operators and Drivers Association (TODA) members with life-saving skills while strengthening community cooperation.
The initiative seeks to professionalize Infanta’s transport workers, transforming them from service providers into disciplined and ethical community partners. The program was officially introduced during the recent First TODAlympics—an event promoting driver health, safety, and welfare while launching the mandatory TODARESCUE training program.
The launch at the Northern Quezon Auditorium marked the town’s commitment to improving public safety, recognizing tricycle drivers as Infanta’s most accessible rapid responders. The event drew a large crowd of TODA members eager to receive certified training in Basic Life Support and emergency procedures through TODARESCUE.
This kind of training is especially important in Infanta, a town often hit by natural disasters such as floods and typhoons. Tricycle drivers often become the first to respond when roads are blocked or emergency help is delayed, making them vital in saving lives during the first few minutes of an emergency.
“We are launching the TODA Rescue program to make drivers partners in emergency response,” Mayor Ruanto said. “If a passenger faints during a trip, the driver will know what first aid to give and how to stay calm until professional help arrives.”
The mayor confirmed that, in addition to medical response, drivers will also be trained as fire volunteers starting next month. They will learn how to prevent and respond to fires within their communities, including safe evacuation practices and coordination with the local Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP).
He reminded drivers to remain honest and disciplined in their work, upholding the values of trust and professionalism. He also emphasized the need to charge the correct fare, follow traffic rules, and keep their licenses valid at all times.
To support the drivers, the mayor announced several benefits, including free medical check-ups and upcoming contests that will reward the most professional and disciplined drivers. He said these initiatives are part of a broader effort to raise driver morale and promote public trust.
He also confirmed that the Land Transportation Office (LTO) in Infanta will soon open permanently—a major relief for drivers who currently travel nearly three hours to Lucena City to renew their licenses. The new office is expected to streamline licensing and registration services, reducing travel time and improving access for local transport workers.
Mayor Ruanto also announced plans to remove the annual operating fee for tricycle permits through a new local ordinance, easing drivers’ financial burden and supporting their livelihood. In return, he asked for their active participation in the town’s safety and training programs to strengthen community cooperation.
The event, which brought together members from 18 drivers’ associations, was personally funded by Mayor Ruanto. He said the cost was equivalent to six months of his salary, as no official government budget was yet available for the initiative.
In his speech, the mayor called on drivers to embrace their new identity as community guardians. “Your success directly contributes to the development and safety of Infanta,” Ruanto said. “Each of you plays a vital role in keeping our town safe, united, and moving forward.”
“These programs show active, personal leadership,” Ruanto added. “We’re investing directly in the skills, values, and well-being of Infanta’s tricycle drivers so they can continue serving the public with pride and professionalism.”
The mayor said the initiative demonstrates how local collaboration and personal commitment can create a safer, more resilient community. He expressed optimism that this model could serve as an example for other towns in Quezon Province.
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