The National Federation of UV Express Inc. is opposing the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board’s (LTFRB) plan to introduce seven additional Motorcycle (MC) taxi service providers in the country.
Alpha Martinez, the national president of the UV express group, said there are already existing MC taxi players like Move It of Grab, Angkas and JoyRide, but until now a pilot study by the LTFRB technical working group (TWG) and the Department of Transportation (DOTr) about government policies on MC taxi operations is yet to be completed.
Martinez said that over the past five years, the concerned government agencies failed to establish a clear mandate for MC taxi policies and regulations through the ongoing pilot study. Martinez warned that if the LTFRB proceeds with the plan without proper laws and regulations governing MC taxi operations, it would significantly impact the already modest earnings of their members.
Boddie Pulido, legal counsel for the UV express group, said it is logical for the TWG to complete the pilot study before introducing additional players.
This would ensure that appropriate policies are in place, safety standards are adhered to, there are no legal issues and the operation is economically viable for all passenger vehicles.
Pulido also called on Congress to enact legislation governing MC taxi operations. Until the pilot study is completed, he suggested that the TWG should refrain from processing applications for the seven prospective MC taxi players.