Motorcycle taxi bill pushed

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MANILA, Philippines — Motorcycle taxi riders are calling on regulators and legislators to ensure that the protection of rider livelihoods remains at the center of any regulation governing the motorcycle taxi industry.

In a statement, Motorcycle Taxi Community Philippines chairman Romeo Maglunsod thanked the government for extending assistance to riders amid the continuing fuel crisis, saying the P5,000 aid provides meaningful relief for workers whose daily earnings are heavily affected by rising fuel costs.

“We are grateful for the assistance extended by the government to riders during the fuel crisis. For many riders, almost half of their daily income is already spent on fuel, and the P5,000 assistance is a big help,” Maglunsod said.

However, the group stressed that financial aid is only a temporary measure. It said long-term protection must come from policies that allow riders to earn decently, work with dignity, and continue supporting their families.

“At this time of crisis, no rider’s family should go hungry or suffer because of the lack of humane and stable livelihood,” Maglunsod said. “Any action from Congress must ensure the protection of the livelihoods of thousands of riders who work every day to provide for their families.”

The group said the passage of the motorcycle taxi bill is now urgent, noting that the government’s pilot study on motorcycle taxis has been running for almost a decade.

Maglunsod said any motorcycle taxi law must recognize the industry as part of the gig economy and must be anchored on the rights and interests of gig workers.

“What riders want is to remain the boss of their own livelihood. This means having the freedom to choose which platform to be active in, the ability to benefit from programs offered by different platforms, and the flexibility to strategize our own online hours,” he said.

The group also recommended that franchises or accreditation be granted directly to individual riders, similar to the model used for transport network vehicle service drivers, instead of placing riders under platform-held franchises.

Under this setup, Maglunsod said riders would have greater control over their own operations, while platforms would serve as tools that help them access passengers, incentives, and support programs.

“The rider should hold the power to decide how to earn a living. Platforms should be instruments that support riders, not structures that limit their freedom,” he said.

The group also underscored the public service role of motorcycle taxi riders, saying their continued presence on the road helps commuters get to work, school, hospitals, and other essential destinations.

“Every hour that riders are on the road means more Filipinos are able to travel, report to work, and reach the services they need,” Maglunsod said.

“Our call is clear: protect rider livelihoods, protect our freedom as gig workers, and pass the motorcycle taxi bill in a way that is fair, just, and humane,” he added. (Contributed story)