LTFRB asked to lift new riders moratorium
CONGRESSMAN Rodge Gutierrez of the 1-Rider Party-list called on the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to reconsider its recent decision, issued through the Motorcycle Taxi Technical Working Group (MCT-TWG), to impose a one-year moratorium on onboarding new riders for Move It and mandate a reduction of its rider fleet to 6,836.
This order endangers the livelihoods of approximately 14,000 Filipino motorcycle taxi riders, just before Labor Day — a time dedicated to celebrating the contributions of our nation’s workers.
“We are deeply concerned about the impact of this decision on the 14,000 riders who depend on Move It for their daily income. These hardworking Filipinos provide essential transportation services to our communities, and we urge the LTFRB to reconsider this move, especially given its timing and the significant socioeconomic consequences,” Gutierrez said.
The 1-Rider Party-list has been at the forefront of advocating for the Motorcycle Taxi Bill, which has already been approved by the House of Representatives, to establish a clear, fair, and inclusive regulatory framework for the industry.
This recent LTFRB decision underscores the urgent need for the bill’s final passage into law to ensure consistent and equitable policies.
“The approval of the Motorcycle Taxi Bill in the House of Representatives is a significant step toward protecting riders, but this LTFRB order shows why we need the law fully enacted. Without it, riders remain vulnerable to abrupt regulatory changes that threaten their livelihoods,” Gutierrez emphasized.
“We respectfully appeal to Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Vince Dizon to intervene in this matter. Secretary Dizon has shown dynamic leadership and a commitment to advancing transportation solutions for Filipinos. We are hopeful that his proactive approach will lead to a fair resolution that safeguards the livelihoods of our riders,” Gutierrez stated.
The reduction of Move It’s rider fleet and the suspension of its operations in Cebu and Cagayan de Oro could disrupt affordable transportation for commuters and push thousands of riders into economic uncertainty.
“The motorcycle taxi pilot program was designed to formalize and support riders, not to jeopardize their livelihoods. We urge the LTFRB to reconsider this decision and engage with stakeholders to find a balanced solution,” Gutierrez said.
