The technology-driven ride hailing services have extended to motorcycles, which makes it imperative for the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to be a step ahead and put the mode of public vehicle under its wing, Quezon City Rep. Winston Castelo said.
The LTFRB refuses to consider ride hailing motorcycles or Habal-Habal as public transport since it said that the safety of passengers cannot be guaranteed but the mode of transportation is becoming popular due to the worsening urban vehicular traffic problem particularly in Metro Manila.
Castelo, chairman of the House Committee on Metro Manila Development, said that under a Department of Transportation (DoTr) order, the LTFRB has been given full authority over Transport Network Companies (TNCs).
LTFRB board member and spokesperson Aileen Lizada earlier said Congress needs to revise Republic Act 4136 or pass a related measure to legalize motorcycle taxis.
Castelo, however, said the new DoTr order gave the LTFRB full authority on all TNCs which should include motorcycle taxis.
The veteran legislator said the LTFRB should face reality and recognize that more than cars, motorbikes need regulation as public transport and when deployed as units of transport network companies (TNCs) due to safety considerations for passengers.
“Motorcycle taxis ferry passengers faster and cheaper but the safety of passengers should be assured,” the seasoned lawmaker said.
Motorcycle taxis ferry passengers faster and cheaper but the safety of passengers should be assured.
The administration stalwart said the use of motorcycle taxis is only practical since it is an alternative to poor public transportation, Mass Rail Transit (MRT) breakdowns, lack of Grab units and poor taxi service.
“More Filipinos will have an opportunity for a gainful livelihood from motorcycle since it is cheaper to own than cars,” Castelo said.
More Filipinos will have an opportunity for a gainful livelihood from motorcycle since it is cheaper to own than cars.
He said the LTFRB regulation should particularly address the need to avoid colorum vehicles as well as measures to ensure the safety of motorcycle passengers.
The government will also earn taxes from the regulation of motorcycle taxis, Castelo said.