MORE than 4,000 tricycle drivers in Muntinlupa, whose livelihoods were affected by the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic, are now allowed to operate on condition that they adhere to sanitary measures amid the modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ).
Muntinlupa Traffic Management Bureau (MTMB) chief Danidon Nolasco said the resumption of tricycle operations in the city starting May 25 is aimed at helping at least 4,174 three-wheel drivers who have renewed their permits.
He added that they can only transport frontliners, workers of industries allowed to operate during MECQ, and heads of households buying essential goods to limit people’s movement. An odd-even scheme will also be enforced and riders can only operate from 5 a.m. to 12 noon.
MTMB has already issued 2,761 official stickers and quarantine passes to members of 26 tricycle operators and drivers associations (TODA).
Nolasco reminded tricycle drivers of the ongoing ban in entrance to highways and national road, but not during health emergency cases. Also not allowed are crossover trips, except for Rizal St. (Poblacion) and Bautista (Bayanan).
Each tricycle is authorized to ferry only one passenger, with an exemption for emergency cases. Each trip—because of limited passenger load—will be considered “special” with a fare of up to P25.
To avoid physical contact, a transparent plastic sheet barrier shall be installed in the three-wheel taxis. They must be disinfected at least twice a day, with alcohol-based sanitizers.
Face masks must be worn both by drivers and passengers at all times. Body temperature of the latter should be checked regularly and disinfecting facility with soap and water, or sanitizers, will be made available in local terminals.
Riders who violate the guidelines will be fined with P1,000 for first offense, P2,000 for second offense, and revocation of permit for third offense.
Muntinlupa Mayor Jaime Fresnedi has signed Executive Order 15, Series 2020 allowing the resumption of tricycle operations in the city during MECQ.
The business continuation of TODA in the city is in line with the recommendation of MTMB and Omnibus Public Transportation Guidelines as approved by the Department of Transportation.
As of May 25, Muntinlupa has 207 confirmed cases with 144 recoveries, 32 active cases, 31 reported deaths, 36 suspect cases, and 192 probable cases.
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