With electric scooters or e-scooters becoming a popular mode of transportation in Valenzuela City, a need to regulate the use and operation of e-scooters for public safety arises.
As the COVID-19 pandemic has also brought difficulties in mass public transportation, the need for private, motorized vehicles and even bicycles have become the new norm of travelling – and the introduction of other alternatives modes of travelling such as e-scooters are now an increasing trend in the metro.
An e-scooter is described as a stand-up vehicle powered by an electric motor that is designed to travel on two or three wheels. Classified as “micromobility”, e-scooters are generally designed with handlebars and a large deck in the center on which the rider stands.
With this trend, Ordinance No. 811, Series of 2020 or the “2020 E-Scooter Ordinance of Valenzuela City” allows e-scooters to traverse all roads, streets, and alleys within the jurisdiction of Valenzuela City except MacArthur Highway.
The ordinance also specifies allowable areas or alternate routes where e-scooters can still cross along the national highway.
Like the regulation of motorcycle use along roads, e-scooter drivers must also wear a helmet. Wearing of additional protective gears such as knee pads, wrist pads, and elbow pads are also highly encouraged to ensure the driver’s safety.
Serving as a private vehicle by residents of Valenzuela City, the proper age limit is still being imposed in the ordinance. E-scooter drivers must be at least 17 years of age, and individuals less than 17 years old may only drive within their respective private property or compound under the supervision of their parents and guardians.
Anyone who violates the ordinance will be fined with an administrative penalty of PhP 500.00 or render twenty-four (24) hours community service.
The City Government of Valenzuela has imposed the necessary guidelines for the promotion of general welfare and public safety in the City including its residents, transients and even the traversing public.
The “2020 E-Scooter Ordinance of Valenzuela City” was approved by the 8th City Council last November 3 during its 14th Special Session at the Valenzuela City Session Hall.