Remove MC Taxi Limit
June 16, 2023We call on Transport Officials to remove the limit on Motorcycle (MC) taxis to ensure a better commuting experience for the Filipino public.
Millions of commuters rely on motorcycle taxis especially with the massive deficit on quality transport infrastructure. Adequate mass transportation systems have yet to be built to serve the continuous growth of the Filipino population. Hence, millions of commuters are plagued by the daily distress of having to fall in line for hours, squeeze themselves in packed modes of transportation or resort to illegal transport options, just to get home to their families after a hard day’s work.
Such shortage has resulted in the proliferation of illegal habal-habals, which are being patronized by desperate commuters with scarce options. Because they are unregulated, the drivers of habal-habals do not have proper training and they do not have accident insurance. Recognizing their massive presence especially in the provinces and the danger of their unauthorized operations, no less than Senator Raffy Tulfo recommended to legalize habal-habal operations, and even asked MC taxi operators to help train habal-habal riders.
Moreover, we understand that these habal-habal riders are merely looking for ways to earn a living. Why not help them while also helping our commuters? Removing the limit for motorcycle taxis will allow operators to increase their legitimate operations in the province, and, in effect, will also ensure the productivity and safety of both riders and commuters in these areas.
Lastly, removing the limit on MC taxis will also encourage more players to participate in MC taxi services. As we know, more competition can also encourage better delivery of services for our commuters. This is why other governments do not impose limitations on the number of MC taxi units that can operate in their countries.
Removing the limit on MC taxis will serve the interest of the millions of Filipino commuting public and at the same time support the livelihood of thousands of qualified drivers and their dependents.
Atty. Kit Belmonte
Co-Convenor
CitizenWatch Philippines