A motorcycle taxi rider group asked lawmakers to expedite the passage of a legislation to regulate the motorcycle taxi industry in the country.
Motorcycle Taxi Community Philippines (MTCP) chairman Romeo Maglunsod said the group urged Senate Committee on Public Services chairman Senator Raffy Tulfo to prioritize and accelerate the legalization of motorcycle taxis nationwide.
He said the protracted pilot program, now in its fifth year, is a readily achievable solution that could enhance urban mobility and provide greater economic opportunities.
Motorcycle taxis have been operating under a pilot program launched in 2019, involving companies such as Angkas, JoyRide and MOVE IT, with a combined 45,000 riders in Metro Manila.
The program aims to evaluate the viability and safety of motorcycles-for-hire as a public transportation option.
Maglunsod said enacting the MC taxi law would significantly boost commuters’ confidence in using motorcycle taxis as a dependable, affordable, and safe mode of transportation.
He said that for commuters, motorcycle taxis provide a practical solution to urban traffic woes. Their ability to navigate congested streets reduces travel times, offering a reliable mode of transportation in densely populated areas.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. earlier expressed support for legalizing motorcycle taxis, highlighting the need to expand transport options for commuters, drivers, and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
House Speaker Martin Romualdez identified House Bill No. 3412, which seeks to legalize motorcycle taxis and reform transportation network vehicle service regulations, as a “priority measure.”
Senator Grace Poe also emphasized that a well-regulated framework would provide commuters with more transportation options and promote healthy competition among service providers.
Malunsod said despite this widespread support, the legislation remains pending.
He expressed concern that the continued impasse in the law’s passage could hinder the industry’s progress and its potential to contribute to economic growth by providing livelihood opportunities.