Electric tricycles (e-trikes) and similar vehicles are now prohibited from using major highways in Metro Manila.

This after the Land Transportation Office (LTO) launched its new policy prohibiting on 2 January traversing Epifanio De los Santos Avenue (EDSA), C-5 Road, Roxas Boulevard, Quirino Avenue, to Magallanes-South Luzon Expressway.

LTO chief Assistant Secretary Markus Lacanilao said the policy implementation is based on existing protocols and rules issued by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA).

E-trike drivers caught traversing the restricted highways will be sanctioned for violating Republic Act No. 4136, or the Land Transportation and Traffic Code, as well as Joint Administrative Order No. 2014-01. 

Penalties may include fines, impoundment of vehicles, or both.

“The implementation of this policy hinges on road safety considerations. Major highways are designed for large and fast-moving vehicles. E-trikes are not fit for these roads because of the fast and heavy pace of traffic,” Lacanilao said.

He added that mixing slow-moving vehicles such as e-trikes with faster vehicles on major roads could create dangerous conditions and increase the risk of accidents.

While stressing safety, Lacanilao acknowledged that many Filipinos rely on e-trikes as a source of livelihood and as an affordable mode of transportation for commuters.

With this, Lacanilao said the LTO will convene with local government units in Metro Manila and transport sector stakeholders to craft clearer guidelines and identify safer routes where e-trike operators and drivers can continue to provide their services.

In the meantime, he urged all e-trike operators, drivers, and users to comply with the directive to help ensure smoother and safer traffic flow while awaiting more comprehensive joint guidelines from the Department of Transportation.

He also reminded law and traffic enforcers to be mindful of the ban to ensure its proper and consistent implementation.