THE Land Transportation Office (LTO) has set in motion the strict enforcement of a ban on e-trikes on major highways in Metro Manila.
The prohibition takes effect on Jan. 2 along Epifanio de los Santos Ave., Circumferential Road 5, Roxas Blvd., and Quirino Ave to Magallanes-South Luzon Expressway in accordance with existing policies of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority.
LTO chief Markus Lacanilao said “this implementation is based on general road safety considerations.”
“These major roads are designed for faster and larger vehicles, and are not suitable for e-trikes due to the speed of traffic flow, volume of vehicles, and width of the roads. The coexistence of slow and light vehicles on this type of road poses a clear risk to all road users,” he explained.
The LTO stressed that the measure was not to disallow the use of e-trikes in general, but to prevent accidents and ensure safety and order on major roads, while awaiting more comprehensive joint guidelines from the Department of Transportation and other relevant agencies.
“Let us understand that this step is being taken for the safety of all road users. We understand that many of us rely on e-trikes as a means of transportation, which is why the LTO is ready to work with local governments and industry sectors to develop safe and suitable routes for e-trikes in the coming days,” Lacanilao noted.
“We also encourage citizens to follow the rules and cooperate to maintain the safe flow of traffic,” he cited.
Those caught operating e-trikes on prohibited thoroughfares face penalties in accordance with Republic Act No. 4136 or the Land Transportation and Traffic Code and Joint Administrative Order No. 2014-01, including the imposition of fines and the possible impoundment of the e-trike.
The agency has deployed law enforcers at strategic points to communicate the policy and ensure its proper implementation.
It urged the public for cooperation and strict adherence to existing traffic rules for everyone’s safety.
