MANILA – Legalizing using bikes in public transport desires an change of the law, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) stated Saturday, as it sought time to study such proposal.
In a announcement, the DOTr stated an existing regulation on land transportation “in reality does not allow bikes to be categorized as ‘for rent’ or for public utility.”
“Allowing bike taxis to operate as public shipping could move towards the Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) issued by way of the Supreme Court, thereby exposing DOTr officials to criminal legal responsibility or contempt of court,” the organisation said.
He became regarding the court docket order that halted operations of Angkas, an app-based bike taxi provider.
“This is why the DOTr has maintained that the pleasant recourse for conversion of motorbike taxis to public transport is modification of the regulation,” it stated.
While Congress has yet to pass a measure that could amend Republic Act 4136 or the “Land Transportation and Traffic Code,” the DOTr sought more time to craft policies for motorbike taxis.
“It does no longer intend to antagonize Angkas. In reality, the DOTr has welcomed motorbike businesses in discussions to thresh out the necessities and other contingent problems,” the branch said.
“These issues are in the end directed at law for passenger protection and not anything else,” it said.
The House of Representatives committee on Metro Manila improvement in January known as on the corporation to draft such recommendations pending modification of the law restricting use of motorbikes in public conveyance, as it desired the legalization of bike taxis.
House panel backs legalization of Angkas, motorcycle taxis
Also last month, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) advised motorbike drivers to prevent servicing passengers even as the legalization of using motorcycles for public transport continues to be being mentioned.
Angkas received popularity for supplying inexpensive trip-hailing offerings and quicker commute via Metro Manila’s site visitors-choked roads.
