The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has intensified efforts against illegal motorcycle taxis, commonly known as “kolorum” bikes, operating in the newly designated areas of Calabarzon and Central Luzon. This initiative aligns with the Department of Transportation’s (DOTr) commitment to ensuring the safety and convenience of both commuters and riders.
Regulatory Measures and Compliance
Assistant Secretary Vigor Mendoza II emphasized the importance of strict adherence to established requirements for new motorcycle taxi operators in these regions. He stated, “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 for its approval.”
These directives aim to regulate the expansion of motorcycle taxi services, ensuring that only authorized operators are permitted to serve the public.
Crackdown on Unauthorized Operators
The LTO’s enforcement actions against unauthorized motorcycle taxis in Batangas underscore the DOTr’s resolve in combating illegal transportation services that compromise passenger safety. The crackdown on “kolorum” bikes not only aims to protect the welfare of commuters but also to level the playing field for all motorcycle taxi operators adhering to the regulations.
Implementation of Rider Codes
The incorporation of rider codes and numbers ensures transparency and accountability, allowing only authorized riders to serve the commuting public. This system facilitates easier monitoring by authorities and offers passengers a sense of security, knowing that their riders are officially recognized and regulated by the government.
Call for Compliance
The Department of Transportation has called on all existing and prospective motorcycle 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 motorcycle taxi industry and for safeguarding the public’s interest.
The DOTr, through the Motorcycle Taxi Technical Working Group, remains committed to overseeing the implementation of these regulations and to the continuous evaluation of the motorcycle taxi service to address any concerns and to ensure that it serves the best interest of the Filipino people.