A TRANSPORTATION department body has recommended a six-month extension of a pilot program for motorcycles as public transport.

The extension seeks to involve more players and legalize the operation of two-wheeled vehicles as public utility vehicles, the agency said in a statement on Tuesday.

The original six-month pilot program will expire on Dec. 26.

The use of motorcycle taxis is being pilot-tested in Metro Manila and Cebu City upon the recommendation of the department, which set guidelines on fares, speed limits and safety gears.

The Land Transportation and Traffic Code does not recognize single motorcycles to operate for public transport.

A commuters’ group has asked a Quezon City court to stop five motorcycle taxi companies from operating, accusing them of being fly-by-night operators that expose their customers to undue risks.

Lawyers for Commuter Safety and Protection (LCSP) asked the trial court to stop We Move Things Philippines, Inc. (Joyride), Habal Rides Corp., I-Sabay, Sampa-Dala Corp. and Trans-Serve Corp.

The transport agency formed a technical working group in December last year to address calls to include the two-wheeled vehicle as a legal transportation mode. — Arjay L. Balinbin

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