House proritizes legalization of motorbike transport service
FOLLOWING President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr.’s recent directives, Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez announced the prioritization of a measure that seeks to legalize motorcycles as public transportation vehicles and reform current transportation network vehicle service (TNVS) regulations.
House Bill 3412 was introduced by 1-RIDER Party-list Reps. Rodge Gutierrez and Bonifacio Bosita.
This legislative move is in direct response to President Marcos’ advocacy for increased transportation options for the Filipino people, as demonstrated by his support for the legalization of motorcycle taxis and the easing of TNVS regulations.
The President’s stance was notably expressed following his meeting with officials from Grab Holdings Inc. at Malacañang, underscoring the need for diverse and accessible transportation solutions.
“The maintenance of peace and order, the protection of life, liberty, and property, and the promotion of the general welfare are foundational to our democracy. It’s imperative to adapt our laws to the evolving transportation landscape to ensure the well-being and convenience of our citizens,” Romualdez said.
The bill aims to address the legal barriers that currently prevent motorcycles from being used as common carriers, thereby fostering a more inclusive and flexible transportation framework. This initiative is also seen as a step towards formalizing the status of motorcycle taxis, which have been operating under pilot testing in Metro Manila and Cebu since 2019.
The motorcycle taxi bill is also seen as a response to the rapid development of App-Driven Transport Network Companies, which have highlighted the necessity for updated regulations that keep pace with technological advancements and evolving public needs. The proposed legislation is expected to facilitate better regulation, enhance safety standards, and contribute significantly to the country’s economic recovery post-pandemic.
“The legalization of motorcycle taxis and the relaxation of TNVS regulations align with our goals to provide more choices for passengers, drivers, and businesses, particularly MSMEs. This approach not only addresses the demand for more accessible public transport but also contributes to the economic recovery and employment opportunities in the country,” Romualdez stressed.
