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DOTr Chief Says Yes To Motorcycle Taxis-But Safety And Convenience Come First
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Motorcycle taxis are here to stay—for now at least.

In a move that will surely make both riders and commuters breathe a sigh of relief, Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon has thrown his support behind the continued operations of motorcycle (MC) taxis in the country. But there’s a catch: operators must prioritize safe and convenient travel for everyone.

This came after a key meeting with George Royeca, founder of Angkas and one of the most vocal advocates for modernizing our transport system—especially when it comes to supporting riders who earn their livelihood on two wheels.

Let’s be real: for many commuters, especially in traffic-heavy Metro Manila, hopping on a motorcycle taxi isn’t just a choice—it’s a lifeline. It gets you from point A to point B faster, cheaper, and sometimes, it’s your only option when public transport is jam-packed.

The thing is, the pilot program for MC taxis officially ended in 2024, and Congress hasn’t passed a law yet to fully legalize them. That’s where the DOTr steps in.

Understanding the urgency, Secretary Dizon said he’s set to issue a Department Order that will allow these services to legally continue while lawmakers work on passing a permanent solution.

“We need to help both the riders and commuters,” Dizon explained. “It’s part of the President’s direction to ease passenger burden—more transport options mean faster commutes and more time with loved ones.”

However, it’s not going to be a free-for-all. The DOTr chief made it clear that MC taxis must follow all safety rules laid out in the Department Order—everything from roadworthiness to driver qualifications.

So yes, your favorite MC taxi apps won’t be going anywhere anytime soon. But expect stricter rules to keep you safe while zipping through the city. Fair deal, right?

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