Title

TRAFFIC LIGHT INSTALLATION AND TRISIKAD DRIVERS:
A CASE STUDY

Author(s)

SEDROME, JAYSON JEV M.

BAYHONAN, CHRISTIAN M.

LARANJO, AXL ROSS

MANLANGIT VONCHE L.

Affiliation

MISAMIS UNIVERSITY

Degree Program

Bachelor of Science In Criminology

Contributor

MALDEPEÑA, KRISTAL MAY V - ADVISER

DANIEL, EDMAR R - PANEL MEMBER

GUPIT, ELMA FE E - PANEL MEMBER

CUEVAS, JOSE JR., F - CHAIRMAN

ORONG, MARKDY Y - INSTRUCTOR

Year

2026

Abstract

This study examined the challenges faced by trisikad drivers after the installation of traffic lights in a city in Misamis Occidental. Trisikads play an important role in providing affordable transportation for short distances, especially for students, workers, and residents in local communities. However, the installation of traffic lights and the restriction of trisikads from major roads have created difficulties for drivers in their daily operations and livelihood. This study aimed to understand how these changes affect their mobility, income, safety, and participation in traffic planning. The study was guided by Urban Political Economy Theory and Structuration Theory. Urban Political Economy Theory explains how urban development and policies can sometimes favor formal transport systems while disadvantaging informal workers such as trisikad drivers. Structuration Theory explains how individuals adapt and respond to rules and structures in society, showing how trisikad drivers adjust their behavior in order to continue earning a living despite restrictions. This research used a qualitative case study design to explore the experiences of the participants. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews with 7 trisikad drivers, 6 traffic enforcers, and 6 passengers who regularly use trisikads in the area. Participants were selected through purposive sampling to ensure that they had enough experience and knowledge about the traffic system before and after the installation of traffic lights. The collected data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify common patterns and experiences. The findings of the study revealed five major themes: (1) Critical Restriction of Mobility and Income, where drivers experienced fewer passengers and decreased earnings due to restricted routes; (2) Deterioration of Operational Safety and Road Quality, where drivers were forced to use inner roads with potholes and poor conditions; (3) Lack of Formal Representation leading to Exclusion by Non-Consultation, where trisikad drivers were not included in discussions about the new traffic system; (4) Demand for Exclusive and Safe Infrastructure, where drivers and passengers suggested dedicated lanes or routes for trisikads; and (5) Need for Policy Reinstatement and Livelihood Support, where drivers requested the reinstatement of registration and assistance to sustain their livelihood. The study concludes that while the installation of traffic lights helps improve traffic management, it has also created unintended negative effects on informal transport workers, particularly trisikad drivers. Restrictions on their movement, lack of consultation, and limited infrastructure support have significantly affected their income, safety, and ability to continue their livelihood. Based on the findings, the study recommends that local government units develop more inclusive traffic policies that consider the needs of informal transport workers. Authorities should also provide designated routes or lanes for trisikads, improve road conditions in inner streets, and include trisikad drivers in traffic planning discussions. In addition, policy reinstatement and livelihood assistance programs may help support drivers who depend on trisikads as their primary source of income.

Keywords

mobility, policy, Safety, traffic light, trisikad drivers