Davao City First District Representative Paolo “Pulong” Duterte’s provisions in the original bill HB 4470 are included in the final version of HB 10424 or the proposed Motorcycles-for-Hire Act, which was approved on second reading a few days before the sine die adjournment of Congress last month.
The approval means there are only a few steps left and legislation will soon be passed to regulate the operation of Angkas, MoveIt, and Joyride, which are included in the pilot study for the use of motorcycles as public transportation. The pilot study of the Land Transportation and Franchising Regulatory Board (LTFRB) was started in 2019.
Rep. Pulong believed that many commuters are in favor of using motorcycles-for-hire which are more economical and faster than taking a taxi or Grabcar.
He said since more and more people are riding motorcycles for hire, there should be a law to make them fully legal and subject to regulations and rules.
“Dapat ring bigyan ng proteksyon at matiyak ang kaligtasan sa daan ng mga sumasakay dito,” Rep. Pulong said.
He said this is the reason why under HB 10424, the motorcycle rider must have a professional driver’s license. Continuous attendance at safety training seminars will also be a requirement for the rider.
The bill also states the speed limit of motorcycles-for-hire which will not exceed 60 kilometers per hour.
Under the bill, the insurance coverage of its riders and passengers will be made a requirement. Quick response teams will also be formed to ensure that any accident rider and motorcycle-for-hire rider are immediately taken to the nearest hospital.
There are also stated penalties for those who violate the provisions of the bill.
