Riding toward opportunity
ON weekends, when the sun is kinder and the roads seem to call out for adventure, I often notice groups of men astride their gleaming big bikes, heading toward destinations unknown.
There is something quietly fascinating about the sight—powerful machines humming in unison, their riders chasing freedom, perhaps a momentary escape from the demands of work and responsibility. For many of them, riding is more than a hobby–it is therapy, a way to unwind, connect with friends, and rediscover nature.
Sometimes, I see them gathered in one area—elite riders with motorcycles that cost as much as, or even more than, the cars we commonly see around town. It is a subculture defined not just by horsepower but by passion. And lately, that passion has caught the attention of our provincial leaders.
Fourth District Board Member Jerry Agerico Rosario, himself a medical doctor and an avid big bike rider who has explored roads far beyond Pangasinan, sees something many of us might have overlooked: opportunity. His proposed Provincial Ordinance No. 45-2026 seeks to declare motorcycle tourism as a niche tourism sector in the province.
At first glance, it may sound like a simple recognition of a growing trend. But look closer, and you will realize it is a vision—one that aligns perfectly with the kind of innovative governance we should be embracing.
Vice Governor Mark Ronald Lambino understands this well. Pangasinan, after all, is not wanting in beauty. From the rolling landscapes of eastern Pangasinan to the vibrant towns of the central district and the breathtaking coastal roads in the west, our province offers routes that seem almost designed for riders in search of scenic journeys. Add to that our cultural sites, heritage towns, and natural attractions, and you have a tourism experience that is both immersive and unforgettable.
Why, then, should we not capitalize on what God has so generously given us?
For too long, development has often been equated with infrastructure alone—more roads, bigger buildings, grander projects. While these are important, progress is not always about pouring concrete. Sometimes, it is about recognizing the treasures already before us and finding creative ways to share them with the world.
Motorcycle tourism represents precisely that kind of creativity. Riders rarely travel alone; they come in groups, stop at local eateries, refuel at gasoline stations, buy supplies from small stores, and occasionally extend their stay in nearby accommodations. In short, they spend—and their spending trickles down to local communities. This is inclusive growth in motion.
Imagine motorcycle-friendly routes clearly mapped out across Pangasinan, rest stops equipped with essential facilities, establishments graded for quality service, and safety measures thoughtfully integrated into the travel experience. Picture vloggers and touring groups showcasing our landscapes on digital platforms, inadvertently becoming ambassadors of our province. Tourism promotion in today’s world is no longer confined to brochures; it thrives on the authenticity of shared experiences.
Yet what makes this proposed ordinance particularly admirable is its balanced approach. It does not simply aim to attract riders; it underscores sustainability, environmental protection, road safety, and public order. Growth should never come at the expense of community welfare, and it is reassuring that this initiative places equal importance on the safety of riders, pedestrians, and residents alike.
Some may ask: Is this really a priority?
The better question might be: Why not?
Tourism drives economic growth, creates jobs, and boosts countryside development. By recognizing motorcycle tourism as a priority niche, the provincial government shows its readiness to adapt to evolving travel trends, where modern tourists seek flexibility, authenticity, and adventure—qualities motorcycle touring naturally offers.
More importantly, it redefines progress—not just by what we build, but by how we care for what we already have. Pangasinan’s roads, coastlines, and communities are gifts that only need thoughtful stewardship and smart promotion.
Rosario’s proposal is, in many ways, an invitation—to riders seeking their next destination, to entrepreneurs ready to serve new markets, and to local governments eager to unlock fresh sources of growth. With the support of leaders like Vice Governor Lambino, this vision has the potential to transform casual weekend rides into purposeful journeys that benefit the entire province.