A commuter group has filed for an injunction order against five motorcycle taxi apps that it called “illegal” as they had not been recognized and authorized by the transport regulator.
Ariel Inton, who speaks on behalf of the Lawyers for Commuters Safety and Protection (LCSP), listed the ride-hailing apps as We Move Things Philippines Inc. (Joyride), Habal Rides Corp., I-Sabay, Sampa-Dala Corp., and Trans-Serve Corp.
The temporary restraining order (TRO) against the five was filed at a local court in Quezon City.
“The commuting public should not be used as guinea pigs by fly-by-night motorcycle taxi operators with zero track record,” Inton said.
He added that the “illegal operations” of the five “may cause grave and substantial damage to the public.”
“The commuting public should not be used as guinea pigs by fly-by-night motorcycle taxi operators with zero track record.”
Ariel Inton, speaking on behalf of the Lawyers for Commuters Safety and Protection
“The respondents are currently sabotaging the government’s pilot program for motorcycle taxis by unilaterally according to themselves the privilege to operate motorcycles for hire in the guise of addressing the traffic situation in Metro Manila, Metro Cebu, and other urban cities,” Inton said.
Angkas is at the final leg of its six-month test period for motorcycle taxi operations. It is currently the sole provider provisionally authorized by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to operate motorcycle ride-hailing services.
“At the outset, it should be pointed out that respondents commenced the rollout of their motorcycle taxi business without any franchise from Congress or permit nor authority from the Department of Transportation [DOTr],” Inton said.
He explained that the “thousands” of illegal services “exposes” users to road hazards and increase the risk of accidents.
“If we allow them to continue operating—those without experience and track record—then we are putting in peril the lives of passengers,” Inton said.
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