With the six-month dry run for motorcycle-taxis almost done, transport regulators are now considering to extend the ongoing pilot run for another half a year in a bid to regulate new motorbike-hailing firms.
The inter-agency technical working group (TWG) on motorcycle-taxis said on Tuesday that the extension of the pilot implementation will allow new providers to participate in the study.
Currently, only bike firm Angkas is authorized to undergo Department of Transportation’s (DOTr) pilot test run to ensure that they are following the agency’s strict regulations and guidelines.
The TWG was formed by the DOTr in June when it gave Angkas the green light to operate on a trial basis in Metro Manila and Cebu for six months which could pave the way for the legalization of motorcycle-taxis in the country.
The pilot implementation is set to end on December 26.
Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) member retired Major General Antonio Gardiola said allowing new players to participate in the pilot run is for the interest of the riding public to give them wider choice.
Gardiola added that competition in the ride-hailing market will ensure a higher standard of service to its passengers.
According to Gardiola, the DOTr heard last month proposals from six motorcycle-hailing firms namely Citimuber, JoyRide, MoveIt, EsetGo, Sakay, and VroomGo, which are all seeking to participate in the pilot run.
The pilot run’ extension, Gardiola explained, aims to “provide the TWG more time to widen the scope of their study on appropriate standards and capacities for motorcycles to be considered safe, convenient, and eligible for franchise.”
“We want to determine their operational readiness and compliance,” the board member stated. (Alexandria San Juan)
