Abstract: This study focused on the tricycle industry in Cabanatuan City located within the heart of the Province of Nueva Ecija, also known as the “Tricycle Capital of the Philippines”. More particularly, it delved on describing the demographic profile of the tricycle sector including its internal and external environments, and the viability of owning one. Descriptive research method was used and randomized block design was employed in getting the sample that involved 412 respondents in 89 barangays of the city. Findings revealed that tricycle driver-operators were males, in their productive age, married, mostly high school graduates, and that tricycle driving was the only means of livelihood. Limited job opportunities and educational background were the reasons for choosing this occupation. Owning a unit requires only a very small capitalization where investment can be recouped in so short a time. Tricycle units were usually financed. Organization and management was very simple. Majority used 4-stroke motor engine which was more environment-friendly than two-stroke. Tricycle sidecar was undersized and risky for passengers. Abuses were rampant as to the fares charged to passengers, and often contracted to as high as three-hundred percent or more. Many of them disliked tricycle driving because of long hours of waiting and physical fatigue. Majority were not ready yet for a change in the mode of transportation like the use of e-trike. Environmental concerns include used lube oil was stockpiled in the backyard and tricycle driver-operator urinated in public places. Income derived from this insufficient to the needs of their family.
Keywords: Tricycle; Driver-Operator; Occupation; Livelihood; Income.
Title: Cabanatuan City: Tricycle Capital of the Philippines
Author: Felipe E. Balaria
International Journal of Management and Commerce Innovations
ISSN 2348-7585 (Online)
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