Following the reconstitution of a technical working group (TWG) for motorcycle taxis, Grab and Move It collectively called on the government to hasten the legalization of motorcycle taxis in the Philippines and to open the industry to more players.
In separate statements, Grab and Move It said stronger competition will “address the needs of commuters for affordable, safe, and reliable mode of public transportation.”
On Wednesday, the House Committee on Metro Manila Development conducted a public hearing on the safety and efficiency of motorcycle taxis, which have yet to be legalized as public transportation.
“We appreciate that there are continuing discussions that would help our lawmakers craft the law toward the legalization and regulation of the industry. Putting in place a law is the win-win solution for all stakeholders, particularly our commuters who deserve an efficient and safe form of public transportation,” Grab said in a statement.
“Under a regulated environment, we expect to see more industry players and we welcome this as this will provide more job opportunities to Filipinos and give more choices to our commuters. Competition will make the motorcycle taxi business vibrant and its service better.”
During the hearing, the lawmakers agreed that there is “no need” to review and dispute the acquisition of Move It by Grab, as they are compliant with the qualifying parameters set by the first TWG on motorcycle taxis.
“Nagpapasalamat po kami sa ating mga mambabatas at mga government officials sa kanilang naging papel sa paglilinaw na ang ating acquisition deal with Grab ay legal at above board. Makailang ulit na po natin itong ipinaliwanag sa publiko, at nagagalak po kami na maging ang ating mga mambabatas at regulators ay sang-ayon po dito. Panahon na po na isang-tabi natin ang iringan sa motorcycle taxi, at tutukan natin ang pagsasabatas nito para sa ating mga riders at pasahero,” said Move It Chairman Francis Juan.
Earlier this month, Transportation Secretary Jaime J. Bautista ordered the reconstitution of the TWG as the body that would “oversee and monitor the continuous pilot implementation of MC taxi operations.”
Three motorcycle taxi platforms—Angkas, JoyRide, and Move It—are currently operating under a pilot program, pending the legalization of the service.
