Keep motorbike taxis on the road — solon
A party-list solon expressed full support for the continued operation of motorcycle taxis, amid the pandemic.
In a statement, MARINO party-list Rep. Sandro Gonzalez said the government can continue and expand the pilot study which allowed motorcycle taxis to operate.
Last June 2020, the Inter-agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) allowed backriding on motorcycles, subject to compliance with health protocols.
“Motorcycle taxis serve as an effective alternative mode of transportation, considering that buses and jeepneys have limited routes. Motorcycle taxis provide point-to-point transportation which is cheaper than using cars for the same purpose. As we continue to struggle with the pandemic and the limited transport options, we should not close our doors to alternatives,” Gonzalez said.
The party-list made its stand clear as some seafarers affected by the downturn in the global economy resort to alternate livelihoods, including motorcycle taxis, to make ends meet.
“Allowing the operation of motorcycle taxis will ensure that the thousands of motorcycle taxi operators and drivers will keep their jobs in this time of crisis. It will also ensure the mobility of riders and workers, which is vital in stimulating economic activity,” the solon added.
In addition to livelihood opportunities for seafarers, motorcycle taxis, particularly Angkas, played a vital role in the relief efforts of the MARINO Party-list in delivering food packs, medicines, and vitamins to seafarers in Metro Manila who were stranded when the government imposed strict community quarantines.
“Motorcycle taxis literally delivered for seafarers during the quarantine. We have seen first-hand their value for our constituents and what they can do for the people and the economy. The MARINO Party-list’s assistance efforts would not have been as successful without them,” Gonzalez also said.
The lawmaker likewise urged that the same permission be given to operators in major cities outside Metro Manila, including Cebu City, Davao City, Cagayan de Oro, Bacolod City, and Iloilo City.
Gonzalez added a personal note in his manifestation in the hearing, noting that the delivery culture created by the lockdowns would not be possible without a regulatory environment which will provide riders with a sense of security about their jobs.
“I can personally attest to the value of motorcycle taxis. During the lockdown in Manila last year, i practically lived off the services of motorcycle taxis. I order my food via Grab, shop for and deliver goods via Lalamove, and send products thru Angkas,” he added.
