Status of non-motorized public transport and aligning its role in the tourism industry of Catbalogan City, Samar, Philippines

Non-motorized public transport such as Pedicab or tricycle rickshaw earns the advantage of a fast way to earn money but in the context of the marginalized sector, it is a profession they know for a living and majority of these Pedicab drivers never escape the bondage of poverty. The authors surveyed the status of Pedicab operations in Catbalogan City and its role to tourism industry. It employed both quantitative and qualitative methods, capitalizing from results of quantitative analysis and key informant interviews. Results show that there was a decreasing trend in the number of Pedicab units but found no significant differences in the number during the three year period (2011–2013). The data also shows most of Pedicab drivers came from outskirts of the city, mostly elementary graduate but others have finished two to four year college courses, married and in their early adulthood. Majority spent five to eight hours of driving a day and has spent more than five years in pedicab driving, but their economic condition barely improved. Tourism is generally viewed as the key in improving their income but these Pedicab operators are found to be lackluster in their efforts in preparing for tourism.