LTO takes firm stand vs illegal MC taxis

LTO takes firm stand vs illegal MC taxis | Daily Tribune

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has taken a firm stance against illegal motorcycle taxis, locally known as “kolorum” bikes, operating in MC taxi pilot areas as well as other parts of the country.

LTO Chief, Assistant Secretary Vigor D. Mendoza II has emphasized the importance of compliance with set requirements for new MC taxi players seeking to operate in newly opened areas, specifically in CALABARZON and Region 3.

Mendoza said this is to regulate the expanded areas for motorcycle (MC) taxi services, aligned with the Department of Transportation (DoTR) commitment to ensure the safety and convenience of both the commuting public and the riders.

“New players must comply with requirements. The participants shall submit a master list of their onboarded riders for purposes of assignment of a rider code/number. Only those onboarded riders with corresponding rider code/number shall be allowed to operate; and any activation, deactivation, or reactivation shall be submitted to the MC Taxi Technical Working Group (TWG) for its approval,” Mendoza explained.

He added that the directive underscores the government’s objective to enhance transportation options for the public while maintaining a regulated and orderly system.

The MC Taxi TWG has officially announced CALABARZON and Region 3 as new areas of operation, providing an opportunity for growth and expansion in the MC taxi industry.

“These recent enforcement actions against unauthorized motorcycle taxis in Batangas highlight the DoTr’s resolve in combating illegal transportation services that compromise passenger safety,” Mendoza said.

“The crackdown on ‘Kolorum’ bikes not only aims to protect the welfare of commuters but also to level the playing field for all MC taxi operators adhering to the regulations,” he added.

The incorporation of rider codes/numbers ensures transparency and accountability, according to Mendoza, allowing only authorized riders to serve the commuting public.

“This system facilitates easier monitoring by the authorities and offers passengers a sense of security knowing that their riders are officially recognized and regulated by the government,” the LTO chief said.

The Department of Transportation, on the other hand, calls on all existing and prospective MC taxi operators to strictly adhere to the guidelines and requirements set forth for the expansion and improvement of services.

“Compliance is essential for the sustainable development of the MC taxi industry and for safeguarding the public’s interest,” the agency said.

“The DoTr, through the MC Taxi TWG, remains committed to overseeing the implementation of these regulations and to the continuous evaluation of the MC taxi service to address any concerns and to ensure that it serves the best interest of the Filipino people,” it added.