Lawmakers push for motorcycle taxi law

MANILA, Philippines — Congressmen are calling for the immediate passage of the measure that will legitimize and regulate motorcycle ride-hailing services in the country.

As commuters continue to face challenges in public transportation during this pandemic, proponents stressed the need to pass their bills seeking to amend Republic Act 4136 (Land Transportation and Traffic Code) to make motorcycle taxi services a viable solution.

During the virtual meeting of the House committee on transportation earlier this week, trade and industry committee chair John Reynald Tiangco, who also chairs the technical working group (TWG) that consolidated the versions of the bill, stressed that the motorcycle taxis would address the scarcity in public transport.

Among the other lawmakers calling for the passage of the bill are Quezon City District 2 Rep. Precious Castelo, PBP party-list Jericho Nograles and Manila District 5 Rep. Cristal Bagatsing.

Bagatsing said pilot studies have provided enough data and collective experience on the ground from operators can enable Congress to come up with a bill and pass legislation.

The Department of Transportation presented a summary of findings during the last pilot run but the study still lacked comprehensive enough data for the TWG.

In the same meeting, Angkas chief transport advocate George Royeca expressed confidence that safety regulations, public sector compliance with public health guidelines, and innovations like the backrider shield have proven that motorcycle taxis can give the public the service they need while reducing the chances of virus transmission.

“Motorcycle taxis are safe. The accident rate for Angkas is only 0.003 percent. If we train bikers and equip them with proper tools, it will be safer,” Royeca reiterated.