The Department of Transportation (DOTr) urged all existing and prospective motorcycle taxi operators to strictly adhere to the guidelines and requirements following reports of the proliferation of “colorum bikes” allegedly operating in motorcycle taxi pilot areas across the country, particularly in urban areas.
The call for compliance with the requirements, according to the DOTr, is essential for the sustainable development of the motorcycle taxi industry and for safeguarding the commuters.
Based on the regulations set by the Motorcycle Taxi Technical Working Group (TWG), participants in the study of motorcycle taxi are required to submit a master list of its onboarded riders for purposes of assignment of a rider code/number.
The same regulations stated that only those onboarded riders with corresponding rider code/number shall be allowed to operate; and, any activation, deactivation, or reactivation shall be submitted to the MC Taxi Technical Working Group (TWG) for its approval.
Earlier, the Motorcycle Taxi TWG announced that Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon) and Central Luzon as new areas of operation.
The Land Transportation Office (LTO) earlier took a firm stand against illegal motorcycle taxis in line with the DOTr's commitment to ensuring the safety and convenience of both the commuting public and the riders.
The directive to run after operators of illegal motorcycle taxis, the DOTr said, underscores the government's objective to enhance transportation options for the public while maintaining a regulated and orderly system.
It added that the recent enforcement actions against unauthorized motorcycle taxis in Batangas highlight the DOTr's resolve in combating illegal transportation services that compromise passenger safety.
The DOTr said the crackdown on colorum bikes not only aims to protect the welfare of commuters but also to level the playing field for all motorcycle taxi operators adhering to the regulations.
The incorporation of rider codes/numbers, according to the DOTr, ensures transparency and accountability, allowing only authorized riders to serve the commuting public.
It added that the system facilitates easier monitoring by the authorities and offers passengers a sense of security knowing that their riders are officially recognized and regulated by the government.