Senate panels OK motorcycle taxis as mode of public transport

MANILA, Philippines — The Senate Public Services and Local Government Committees have approved the use of motorcycle taxis as a form of public transport in the country.

Committee Report No. 46, released on Thursday, recommended the approval of Senate Bill No. 1341 or The Motorcycles-for-Hire Act which would allow motorcycle taxis to transport passengers.

The report was signed by 16 senators.

The bill seeks to amend a provision of Republic Act No. 4136 or the Land Transportation and Traffic Code to classify motorcycles-for-hire as among the public utility vehicles regulated by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).

“We are inching closer to having a law that will make motorcycle taxis a part of our public transportation system,” Sen. Grace Poe, chairperson of the public services committee, said in a statement.

The measure defines motorcycles-for-hire as any two-wheeled motor vehicle registered with the Land Transportation Office (LTO), which transports passengers and goods on a for-hire basis, and which may utilize online ride-hailing or pre-arranged transportation platforms.

Under the bill, the motorcycle shall weigh less than 1,000 kilograms, can travel faster than 50 kilometers per hour, has a minimum engine displacement of 125 cubic centimeters, and a backbone-type built.

Along with the vehicle registration, the motorcycles for hire shall secure a certificate of public convenience or a special permit issued by the LTFRB.

The bill noted that motorcycle taxis fall under a classification of public utility automobiles along with public utility trucks, taxis and auto-calesas, garage automobiles, for hire trucks and trucks owned by contractor and customs brokers and customs agents.

“We will continue looking for ways and means to improve the people’s mobility and assure their safety,” Poe said.

GSG