Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez has declared House Bill (HB) 3412, which aims to legalize motorcycles as public transport, as a priority. This move comes after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed his support for the legalization and easing of transportation network vehicle service (TNVS) regulations.
In his statement, Romualdez emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and order, protecting life, liberty, and property, and promoting the general welfare in a democratic society. He believes that adapting laws to the evolving transportation landscape is imperative to ensure the well-being and convenience of citizens.
HB 3412, introduced by Rep. Ramon Rodrigo Gutierrez and Rep. Bonifacio Bosita of the party-list 1-Rider, aims to address the legal barriers that currently prevent motorcycles from being used as common carriers. This bill is seen as a step towards formalizing the status of motorcycle taxis that have been operating under pilot-testing in Metro Manila and Metro Cebu since 2019.
Echoing the President’s message, Romualdez stated that the legalization of motorcycle taxis and the relaxation of TNVS regulations align with the government’s goals of providing more choices for passengers, drivers, and businesses, particularly micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). He believes that this approach not only addresses the demand for more accessible public transport but also contributes to the country’s economic recovery and provides employment opportunities.
In light of these developments, Romualdez urged his fellow lawmakers to support the bill. By doing so, they can contribute to improving the transportation system in the Philippines and ensuring that the needs of the people are met.
The legalization of motorcycles as public transport has sparked debates and discussions among various stakeholders. Advocates argue that it will provide a cost-effective and efficient mode of transportation, especially in congested urban areas. They believe that motorcycles can navigate through traffic more easily, reducing travel time for passengers and increasing the earning potential for drivers.
However, opponents express concerns regarding safety and regulation. They argue that motorcycles are inherently more dangerous compared to traditional public transport vehicles, such as buses and trains. Ensuring the safety of passengers and drivers should be a top priority, and comprehensive regulations must be in place to address this issue.
International audiences may find it interesting to note that the use of motorcycles as public transport is not a new concept in some countries. In Southeast Asia, motorcycle taxis, commonly known as “motorcycle taxis” or “motorbike taxis,” are a popular mode of transportation. These services are regulated and operate within specific guidelines to ensure the safety and welfare of both passengers and drivers.
For example, in countries like Thailand and Indonesia, motorcycle taxis are a common sight on the streets. They provide a convenient and affordable option for short-distance travel, particularly in congested urban areas. These services have been integrated into the transportation system, providing an alternative to traditional taxis and public buses.
By legalizing motorcycles as public transport, the Philippines can learn from the experiences of other countries and adapt their best practices to ensure a safe and efficient system. Implementing comprehensive regulations, including driver training, vehicle maintenance standards, and insurance requirements, will be crucial in addressing safety concerns.
In conclusion, the push to legalize motorcycles as public transport in the Philippines is gaining momentum. Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez has declared it a priority, aligning with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s support for the initiative. The bill aims to address legal barriers and formalize the status of motorcycle taxis that have been operating under pilot-testing. While the debate continues, ensuring the safety and welfare of passengers and drivers should remain at the forefront of discussions. By learning from the experiences of other countries and implementing comprehensive regulations, the Philippines can create a safe and efficient system that provides more choices for passengers and contributes to economic recovery and employment opportunities.
Source: The Manila Times
