Motorcycle taxis may soon be formally recognized as public utility vehicles as a bill seeks to provide a nationwide regulatory framework for the industry.

House Bill No. 9417, or the proposed “Motorcycle-for-Hire Act,” filed by Rep. Leila M. de Lima, seeks to legalize and regulate motorcycles-for-hire under the supervision of transportation regulators and local government units.

Under the bill, motorcycles-for-hire would be recognized as a viable mode of public transportation and included in local public transport plans, as well as national and local traffic management programs.

“The State shall allow the regulated operation of motorcycles-for-hire to provide the public with an alternative mode of public transportation that is safe, secure, and economical,” the bill states.

The proposal comes amid growing reliance on motorcycle taxis as commuters seek alternatives to traffic congestion and gaps in public transportation. According to the bill’s explanatory note, worsening congestion and increasing demand for motorcycle taxi services underscore the need for a formal regulatory framework.

Beyond recognizing motorcycle taxis as a mode of public transport, the measure would classify them as common carriers, making operators and riders subject to passenger safety and liability standards.

Meanwhile, motorcycle taxi operations would be regulated by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board and local government units, depending on the area of operation. Operators and riders would also be required to secure permits and comply with licensing, registration, training, and insurance requirements.

To strengthen passenger protection, motorcycle taxi operators would be required to maintain accident response systems and emergency assistance mechanisms. The bill also holds operators and riders jointly liable for damages resulting from accidents during operations.

The measure likewise authorizes regulators to set fare structures and includes safeguards against monopolistic and anti-competitive practices in the motorcycle taxi industry.

Violations of the proposed law could result in fines of up to P10 million for operators, while riders found liable for prohibited acts may be barred from operating motorcycles-for-hire.

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