00:00The day motorcycle taxi service turns into an institutionalized commuter option is drawing near with the DOT are finalizing the implementing guidelines that will formally regulate the industry's operations and functions.
00:13And motorcycle taxi riders are rosy over the prospects of the impending legitimization of their industry, as our Bernard Ferrer reports.
00:20Zinch often rides a motorcycle taxi whenever he has to go out or attend school, traveling from Commonwealth Avenue in Quezon City to España, Manila.
00:31According to him, every minute counts, which is why he prefers motorcycle taxis for a faster and more comfortable commute, especially with unavoidable traffic in Metro Manila.
00:42That's why the Department of Transportation or DOTR's move to study the possibility of making motorcycle taxis a permanent transport option is a welcome development for Zinch.
00:52However, he has a suggestion to the agency.
00:55Kailangan po sigot natin lagyan ng mga safety measures, talagang pandiinan po ng mga training para sa ating mga motorcycle drivers.
01:05Yun po, tsaka may mga seminars po dapat.
01:08For riders like him, legalizing motorcycle taxis would be a big deal.
01:13He says it would greatly help improve his livelihood.
01:16Extra income lang po ito. Malaking tulong din po sa...
01:18Maganda pakita.
01:20Maganda naman po.
01:21Motorcycle taxi group also believe that the time has come for the formal regulation of their sector.
01:27They see this as a vital step in ensuring community safety and in rising the standard of public service.
01:34Hanggang ngayon, 99.997% pa rin yung aming safety record.
01:38Inu-audit yan kada taon ng third party.
01:42Insurance has improved as well in terms of the coordination.
01:45Meron tayong emergency response team.
01:47Pati yung overall training at ongoing training ng mga bikers.
01:50There are now around 30,000 class riders who currently receive benefits such as PhilHealth, SSS, and Pagbid Fund.
01:58The DOTR's decision is expected to have a positive impact not only on commuters but also on Filipinos who rely on motorcycles as their primary source of income.
02:09It can be recalled that a pilot study on motorcycle taxis begun in 2019 and was extended by Congress to further evaluate their operations and impact.
02:18According to DOTR's Secretary Vince Dizon, consultations with motorcycle taxi operators and stakeholders are ongoing to develop a better and more comprehensive regulatory structure.
02:30The agency is expected to issue a department order very soon.
02:35Bernard Ferrer from the National TV Network for a new and better Philippines.
