The Department of Transportation is supporting a bill filed before the House of Representatives to amend certain provisions of Republic Act 4136, or the Land Transportation and Traffic Code, to legally allow motorcycles for hire.
The DOTr said this would be the right step so that motorcycles could function as a public transport service. The Supreme Court earlier issued a temporary restraining order against motorcycle ride-hailing firm Angkas.
Some groups believe that motorcycles should immediately be considered as a mode of public transport, even if the amendments for the Land Transportation and Traffic Code have not yet been passed.
The DOTr said converting motorcycles to a public transport service required a thorough study, deliberation, and assessment.
Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade ordered in December 2018 the creation of a technical working group to come up with a report on the proposed amendments. TWG discussions will begin on Jan. 18.