By Nimfa L. Estrellado Members of various TODA routes take part in TODAlympics competitions during the “Serbisyong TODA-TODO” summit in Infa...
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| Members of various TODA routes take part in TODAlympics competitions during the “Serbisyong TODA-TODO” summit in Infanta, Quezon, promoting teamwork and unity among tricycle drivers and operators. (Municipal Government of Infanta) |
INFANTA, Quezon — More than 2,000 tricycle drivers and transport workers joined a coordinated effort to professionalize and strengthen Infanta’s road transport sector on January 17. The activity advanced a broader push for inclusive, community-based approaches to transport development under “Serbisyong TODA-TODO.”
Mayor Lord Arnel Ruanto led the initiative in partnership with Tricycle Operators and Drivers Associations (TODA). Ruanto said the program recognizes TODA groups as organized and reliable partners in public service and community governance.
Framed as the TODA Summit 2026, the gathering brought together service programs, community engagement, and entertainment for transport workers. The program emphasized discipline, professionalism, and social responsibility across the local transport sector.
Program components included a TODA medical mission, basic life support and first aid training, and fire safety instruction conducted in coordination with the Bureau of Fire Protection. TODA Rescue activities further strengthened emergency preparedness and response capabilities during accidents and disasters.
Wellness and lifestyle initiatives complemented the service programs, including Zumba sessions under “TODA Indak,” free haircuts through “TODA Pogie,” and family-centered advocacy activities that promoted responsible parenthood and values formation among drivers and operators.
Competitive activities formed a major part of the summit through the TODAlympics, a sports program launched last year to promote unity and teamwork among TODA members. Several routes were recognized for strong performances across basketball, volleyball, and chess competitions, with Route 9 Matigal emerging as overall champion, followed by Route 14 Madunong and Route 13 Masikap.
Individual athletes were also recognized for outstanding performance and sportsmanship in various events, highlighting discipline, teamwork, and fair play within the transport community. TODAlympics served as both a competitive platform and a venue for strengthening camaraderie among drivers and operators.
Raffle draws offered household items, fuel-related prizes, and grand prizes that included e-bikes. Live performances and a special appearance by artist Lindsay Devera added to the celebratory atmosphere of the summit.
Ruanto said the local government aims to raise the standard of living of tricycle drivers and operators by professionalizing the sector and acknowledging its role in daily mobility and household income. He added that safety and disaster-response training enables drivers to serve as community partners beyond their transport duties.
The initiative advances Infanta’s broader strategy to institutionalize inclusive and sustainable transport development. Ongoing collaboration with TODA groups positions the sector as a key partner in delivering people-centered governance.
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