Lawmaker seeks to legalize ‘habal-habal’
Misamis Occidental Representative Henry Oaminal. Photo from https://www.facebook.com/HENNRYSEVILLAOAMINAL
MANILA, Philippines – If a lawmaker gets his way, “habal-habal” or motorcycles-for-hire will soon be legalized in the country.
Misamis Occidental Representative Henry Oaminal filed House Bill 2322 which proposes that the operation of “habal-habal,” a common means of transportation in remote areas, be legalized and its operators be required to register their units with the local government.
“Passengers who are injured or even killed while riding the habal-habal cannot claim benefits because this industry is not covered by insurance. On the other hand, the drivers or operators of the habal-habal face harassment and mulcting from traffic enforcers,” he said in a statement.
The congressman said the legalization and regulation of the “habal-habal” will ensure the safety of commuters.
Under the bill, operators or owners will have to follow the guidelines of the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) and obtain insurance coverage for third party liability.
The motorcycles will not be allowed to travel along the national highway and will be limited to a maximum speed of 40 kilometers per hour.
Oaminal explained that the “habal-habal” is a motorcycle modified to seat more than two persons.
“It is used in provinces where jeepneys and tricycles cannot stand the rough, steep terrain and narrow roads,” he said.
Other versions of the “habal-habal” have extended seats that may accommodate several people, including their baggage.
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