Singson Tells Riders: ‘I’m Here For You’

Senatorial candidate Chavit Singson, renowned for his colorful career in both public service and business, has garnered widespread recognition for his unwavering advocacy for motorcycle riders’ welfare and road safety in the Philippines. His deep empathy and hands-on approach to governance have made him a steadfast champion for a cause that has often been overlooked in the country’s transportation policies.

On Sunday, Singson, a rider himself, graced a gathering of motorcycle riders from across the nation at the Iloilo Convention Centre to commemorate the victims of road traffic accidents. As the principal sponsor of the gathering, Singson was not only a guest of honor but also a unifying presence for the riders, underscoring his commitment to improving road safety.

The affair, organized by the Motorcycle Philippines Federation (MPF), called attention to the growing number of road traffic accidents involving motorcycle riders.

Arturo Sta. Cruz, the administrative director of MPF, highlighted the event as both a memorial for lives lost and a platform to recognize ongoing efforts to enhance road safety.

In his opening remarks, Sta. Cruz affectionately referred to Singson as “the ninong (godfather) of riders,” emphasizing his vital role in supporting the motorcycle community. “Everything we needed, Manong Chavit provided it for us. One call away, he gets it done,” Sta. Cruz said, reflecting on the generosity and dedication Singson has shown toward the riders.

In his address to the attendees, Manong Chavit expressed his solidarity with the victims of road traffic accidents and reaffirmed his commitment to improving road safety, especially for motorcycle riders.

“Nandito ako para sa inyo,” he told the gathering, which translates to “I am here for you.” His simple but powerful message of support highlighted his genuine concern for the motorcycle community, which faces unique challenges on the road, particularly in the wake of rising accident rates.

Singson, known for his straightforward approach to leadership, emphasized the importance of trust and action in his political career, encapsulated in his slogan, “May Isang Salita”—one word.

He recalled how this principle has guided his public service, ensuring that when he commits to something, it gets done. He spoke candidly about his own experiences as a public servant, emphasizing the critical need for greater awareness and action to address motorcycle-related accidents. Drawing on his tenure as governor of Ilocos Sur, Singson shared how his leadership shaped his resolve to advocate for policies that would protect riders and ensure their safety. He assured the gathering that, if elected as senator, he would continue to prioritize their needs and fight for measures to protect them on the road.

With decades of public service under his belt, Singson or Manong Chavit has earned a reputation for being a hands-on leader committed to delivering on his promises. As governor of Ilocos Sur,  Manong Chavit was known for his direct involvement in local governance and for implementing initiatives that improved the lives of his constituents. His leadership was marked by pragmatism and a strong track record of making things happen.

“You know my track record,” Singson reminded the crowd. “When I say I will do something, I get it done. I will continue to support you and your advocacy for road safety and better protection for all riders.”

This statement, rooted in his slogan “May Isang Salita,” further reassured the attendees that his promises would translate into concrete action. Singson reiterated his commitment to enacting policies that would safeguard motorcycle riders. Recognizing the risks associated with motorcycle travel, he called on both the government and society to take proactive measures to prevent accidents and fatalities. His focus on infrastructure improvements, safety regulations, and healthcare support for accident victims underscores his comprehensive approach to addressing the issues facing the motorcycle community.

As the event concluded, Singson’s final message was one of hope and solidarity. He assured the attendees that, if elected to the Senate, he would continue to work alongside them to drive the changes needed to protect motorcycle riders and reduce the risk of accidents.

“If I am given the opportunity to serve in the Senate, you will always have a champion in me,” Singson said.

VBANK LAUNCH

In Iloilo City Singson, announced plans to launch VBank, a digital banking platform designed to provide accessible financial services to underserved Filipinos, during the Western Visayas Transport Summit in Iloilo City on Friday, November 15.

VBank, set to launch in December, seeks to simplify the banking process by eliminating traditional barriers. Users can open an account by downloading the app, filling out an online form, and submitting a selfie—removing the need for physical IDs or in-person visits.

To demonstrate the platform’s ease of use, Singson provided PHP 10,000 each to 18 individuals from the audience who already had online banking accounts.

“VBank will make banking simple and accessible for everyone,” Singson stated during a press conference.

He highlighted that many Filipinos still lack access to banking services, claiming that 77 percent of Filipinos do not have bank accounts. He also pointed out that a large portion of the population lacks credit cards, further restricting their financial opportunities.

Meanwhile, according to the BSP’s 2021 Financial Inclusion Survey, 56 percent of Filipino adults had a bank account in 2021, up from 23 percent in 2017. The rise included a jump from 29 percent in 2019, adding 22 million new account holders within two years. The BSP aims to increase account ownership to 70 percent by 2024.

“The reason our economy is struggling is because money is outside the formal system. All Filipinos must have bank accounts,” Singson added.

To ensure financial inclusion reaches even the most marginalized communities, the former governor plans to collaborate with local government units (LGUs). These partnerships will integrate VBank into cash aid distribution programs, using personalized cards linked to the digital platform to streamline aid delivery and provide recipients with access to additional financial services.

VBank is an evolution of Vigan Banco Rural Incorporada (Vigan Bank), which has been modernized to meet the demands of the digital economy.

Alongside VBank, Singson introduced the VCard app, which will be available for download on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. The app will offer a suite of digital banking features, including credit card services.

“This is the Bangko ng Masa. Every Filipino will have a bank account and a credit card,” Singson remarked. (ADV/With a report from Mariela Angella Oladive)