Bill granting franchise to motorcycle taxi riders instead of platforms pushed

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MANILA, Philippines — A motorcycle taxi riders’ group on Labor Day called on lawmakers to finally pass the long-delayed Motorcycle Taxi Bill, pushing for a law that recognizes riders as independent transport workers and protects their right to earn a living with dignity.

Romeo Maglunsod, chairman of the Motorcycle Taxi Community, said the legalization of motorcycle taxis should be anchored on the realities of gig work, where riders should be treated as independent service providers rather than workers tied to a single platform.

“As we commemorate Labor Day, we honor all Filipino workers, especially our fellow riders in the motorcycle taxi industry. As freelancers, we deserve respect, freedom, and protection as Filipino workers,” Maglunsod said.

The group said one of the key principles of the proposed Motorcycle Taxi Bill should be the granting of franchise rights to individual riders and their registered vehicles, instead of allocating slots directly to platforms.

According to Maglunsod, the existing platform-based slot cap system is outdated and no longer reflects the realities of the gig economy. He said motorcycle taxi riders, like jeepney and tricycle operators, should have transport rights attached to them and their vehicles.

“The franchise should be given to the individual rider and their motorcycle — not to the platforms. Riders are the actual providers of the transport service,” he said.

The group also called for greater freedom for riders to choose which platform to use and when to operate, saying this flexibility is central to the nature of gig work.

“Let us be our own bosses. We should be free to decide which platform to drive for at any time of the day and determine the livelihood strategy that works best for our families,” Maglunsod said.

The Motorcycle Taxi Community also challenged motorcycle taxi platforms to improve support systems for riders, saying riders should be treated not only as partners but also as customers of the platforms they use.

Maglunsod urged platforms to build stronger systems that protect riders, including insurance programs, fair incentives, and better demand-generation mechanisms that help sustain rider livelihoods.

“Every day, riders endure heat, rain, and traffic to serve passengers. It is only right that platforms provide us with the best possible service and systems that protect our welfare,” he said.

The group said the continued delay in passing the Motorcycle Taxi Bill has left thousands of riders in uncertainty, especially at a time when transport workers face rising costs and livelihood pressures.

“Every day of delay is another day of uncertainty for our livelihood. Government must prioritize people’s livelihoods during this crisis,” Maglunsod said.

The group stressed that riders are ready to comply with reasonable regulation, but warned against excessive bureaucracy that could limit their ability to earn a living.

“We understand the need to protect every sector in transport. But regulations must also be sensitive to the needs of commuters and workers. Any proposal must be carefully studied for the livelihood of riders and the convenience of passengers,” Maglunsod said.

The Motorcycle Taxi Community urged lawmakers to pass a law that would give riders clearer rights, dignity, and security in their work.

“We are ready to continue serving so we can provide for our families. What we ask is simple: pass the law that will give us clear rights, dignity, and security in our livelihood,” Maglunsod said. (Contributed story)