Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon on Tuesday vowed to issue an order ensuring the continued operation of motorcycle taxi services, provided they ensure safe and convenient travel for commuters.
This developed following Dizon’s meeting with George Royeca, founder of Angkas and a long-time advocate for transport modernization and rider welfare.
Besides Angkas, MoveIT and JoyRide also operate as motorcycle taxi services.
The dialogue highlighted pressing concerns from both bikers, whose livelihoods depend on MC taxi operations, and from commuters who rely on this essential and affordable mode of transport—especially across Metro Manila’s congested corridors.
With the pilot program for motorcycle taxis having officially ended in 2024 and with time running short before the close of the current Congress, Dizon recognized the urgency of the situation.
In response, he committed to releasing a department order that would allow MC taxi services to legally continue while awaiting the passage of a permanent law.
“The permanent solution for the continuous operations of MC taxis would require congressional action, that’s why the DOTr is committed to working with our lawmakers to come up with viable solutions that greatly benefit both our riders and commuters,” Dizon said.
He also emphasized that the move to allow the continuous operations of MC taxis is consistent with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directives to ease the burden of passengers by giving them more options for transport, faster commute and more time with their families.
The transport chief, however, reiterated that MC taxis must be fully compliant with the recently issued department order on road safety, as well as existing standards and regulations on road worthiness and driver qualifications.
