Gulong ng Pagbabago? A Case Study on the Personal Use of E-Trikes in Pasay City

Abstract

This study explores the personal use of e-trikes among residents of Pasay City. It situates the experience of e-trike drivers within the socio-cultural context of the locality, highlighting how this practice is shaped by, and in turn, influences, their social relationships and the area limitations of Pasay City. E-trikes recently emerged as an alternative mode of mobility amidst the challenges associated with transportation in urban areas like Metro Manila. Although there are existing studies on the use of e-trikes for public transportation, limited studies have been done on its personal use. Using a qualitative case study approach, six e-trike drivers from Pasay City were interviewed, and three of them were observed in a “ride-along” participant observation, in order to illustrate their experiences as personal-use e-trike drivers. A key informant from the local traffic office provided insights on the impact of e-trikes to the transportation landscape of Pasay City and on the associated challenges with e-trike use within the city. Using Social Practice Theory, modified with the Kaginhawaan Theory, the findings of the study reveal the elements that compose and shape the practice of driving e-trikes for personal use, among which are the physical structure of e-trikes and the built environment of Pasay, their skills and knowledge in driving and traffic rules, and the meanings or social and symbolic significance associated with the practice. The interpretation on these meanings guided by the Kaginhawaan Theory suggests that e-trike use promotes family togetherness, provides economic stability, supports occupations, and bears emotional and emotive value. Among the common suggestions of the e-trike drivers and key informant were the improvement of road conditions, establishment of charging facilities, skills-improvement for e-trike drivers, and improved information dissemination of current and future regulations concerning e-trikes.