Grab Calls For Legalization Of Motorcycle Taxis

In the recent reconstitution of a technical working group (TWG) for motorcycle taxis, Grab and Move It both urged the government to legalize motorcycle taxis in the Philippines and to open the industry to more players.

Grab and Move It mutually agreed that stronger competition will “address the needs of commuters for affordable, safe, and reliable mode of public transportation.”

Last Wednesday, the House Committee on Metro Manila Development conducted a public hearing on the safety and efficiency of motorcycle taxis, which have yet to be legalized as public transportation.

“We appreciate that there are continuing discussions that would help our lawmakers craft the law toward the legalization and regulation of the industry. Putting in place a law is the win-win solution for all stakeholders, particularly our commuters who deserve an efficient and safe form of public transportation,” Grab said.

“Under a regulated environment, we expect to see more industry players and we welcome this as this will provide more job opportunities to Filipinos and give more choices to our commuters. Competition will make the motorcycle taxi business vibrant and its service better.”

In the same hearing, lawmakers agreed that there is “no need” to review and dispute the acquisition of Move It by Grab since they are compliant with the qualifying parameters set by the first TWG on motorcycle taxis.

Earlier this month, Transportation Secretary Jaime J. Bautista ordered the reconstitution of the TWG as the body that would “oversee and monitor the continuous pilot implementation of MC taxi operations.”

Three motorcycle platforms – Angkas, JoyRide, and Move It – are currently operating under a pilot program, pending the legalization of the service.

Source: Business Mirror