HOUSE Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez asked congressmen on Sunday to fast track a measure that would allow the operation of motorcycle taxis to provide more transportation options to the commuting public.
“It’s imperative to adapt our laws to the evolving transportation landscape to ensure the well-being and convenience of our citizens,” Mr. Romualdez said in a statement.
The motorcycle taxi industry has provided job opportunities, the House leader said.
“The legalization of motorcycle taxis and the relaxation of TNVS (transportation network vehicle service) regulations align with our goals to provide more choices for passengers, drivers, and businesses, particularly MSMEs (micro, small, and medium enterprises),” he said.
Since 2019, the Department of Transportation (DoTr) has allowed the operation of motorcycle taxis under a pilot study of its reliability and safety as a means of public transportation.
Last year, the House transportation committee and the DoTr’s technical working group called on the need to extend motorcycle taxi pilot studies outside the capital region.
Republic Act (RA) No. 4136, or the Land Transportation and Traffic Code, prohibits the use of two-wheeled vehicles for public transport.
House Bill No. 3412, the proposed Motorcycles-For-Hire Act, which will amend RA 4136, is still pending at the committee levels in both the Senate and the House of Representatives.
The bill seeks to keep up with the development of application-driven transport network companies “which have highlighted the necessity for updated regulations that keep pace with technological advancements and evolving public needs.” — Beatriz Marie D. Cruz
