The Motorcycle Taxi Community Philippines (MTCP), a collective of motorcycle riders nationwide, is urging the Senate to fast-track the legalization of motorcycle taxis, emphasizing that the slow pace of legislation is delaying a practical and beneficial solution for urban mobility and economic opportunities.
The call was directed at Senate Committee on Public Services chairman, Senator Raffy Tulfo, who, according to MTCP chairman Romeo Maglunsod, is seen as an ally in pushing the bill forward.
“We believe Senator Raffy Tulfo, a true ally of Filipino workers, is the new hope for every rider and passenger, to officially recognize this transport service in our constitution,” said Maglunsod.
Motorcycle taxis have been operating under a pilot program since 2019, involving companies like Angkas, JoyRide, and MOVE IT, with 45,000 riders in Metro Manila alone. The program, intended to assess the safety and feasibility of motorcycles-for-hire as public transport, has been running for five years now without any concrete indication towards formal adoption.
According to Maglunsod, the MC Taxi Law will enhance commuters’ confidence in motorcycle taxis as a reliable, affordable, and safe mode of transport. “Motorcycle taxis offer an efficient solution to our traffic problems. They are essential in cutting down travel times in crowded cities,” he added.
Maglunsod also emphasized the law’s potential to set new standards for rider protection and improve the quality of service, through standardized benefits, training programs, and better regulation of platforms. “The MC Taxi Law will ensure that motorcycle taxi platforms provide safer, more consistent services,” he said.
While the bill has garnered support from various government leaders, including President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and House Speaker Martin Romualdez, who named House Bill No. 3412 a “priority measure,” it has yet to show progress. Senator Grace Poe has also backed the move, advocating for a well-regulated framework that would foster competition and provide commuters with more transport options.
However, the legislation’s continued delay has left the motorcycle taxi industry in limbo. Maglunsod voiced concern that without clear regulation, the industry cannot fully unlock its potential to create jobs and improve mobility.
“Senator Raffy Tulfo, you are our hope in turning our dream of legal recognition into reality. We’ve long been a part of the daily lives of many Filipinos. It’s time to give us clear regulation to further improve the services across all platforms,” Maglunsod said.
With urban congestion worsening and the demand for more efficient transport growing, the call for the MC Taxi Law is becoming increasingly urgent.
