A group of motorcycle taxi riders nationwide yesterday said it has asked the Senate to expedite the passage of the long-awaited law that would legalize the operation of motorcycle taxis in the country.
Almost half a thousand members Motorcycle Taxi Community Philippines (MTCP) gathered outside the Senate on Tuesday to press lawmakers to fast-track the passage of the law that would officially regulate motorcycle taxis in the country.
MTCP chairman Romeo Maglunsod said in a statement yesterday a motorcycle taxi law would significantly boost commuters’ confidence in using motorcycle taxis as a dependable, affordable and safe mode of transportation.
Motorcycle taxis Angkas, JoyRide and MOVE IT, have been operating under a pilot program since 2019 with a combined cap of 45,000 riders in Metro Manila. The program aims to evaluate the viability and safety of motorcycles-for-hire as a public transportation option.
“The MC Taxi Law will set new standards for the protection of the livelihood and condition of each rider, such as standardized benefits and training programs of the platforms. For commuters, the improvement of moto-taxi service platforms. With proper regulation in place, it would also ensure consistent safety standards, fair practices, and improved services,” he added.
The group gained the support of Sen. Grace Poe who said it is high-time that motorcycle taxis be legalized so they can be integrated into the country’s transportation system.
“There are overwhelming data, backed by consumer demand, supporting the permanent integration of motorcycles into our public transportation landscape,” said Poe at yesterday’ s Committee on Public Services hearing on the several measures filed in the House of Representatives and the Senate in connection with the legalization and regulation of motorcycles for hire.
