Pernia says gov’t must not block motorcycle taxis

January 23, 2020

Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto Pernia said on Thursday the government should not be a hindrance to innovations, such as ride-sharing services like Angkas and Grab.

In a press conference in Pasig City, Pernia cited the "rapid advancements in technology" that give way to industries in the sharing economy.

He said the government must "upend existing rules and adopt new regulatory framework or approach to adapt to these advancements."

"Innovations in ride- and room-sharing services, such as those offered by Angkas, Grab, AirBnB, and other similar services need to be encouraged. The government should not be an obstacle to such innovations," said Pernia, also director-general of the National Economic and Development Authority.

Earlier, the Department of Transportation technical working group terminated the pilot run of motorcycle operations amid pending cases before the courts filed by Angkas.

But the TWG later withdrew its decision to stop the pilot run after a dialogue conducted by Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade with other motorcycle taxi operators. 

There are pending bills in Congress seeking to amend the 55-year old Land Transportation and Traffic Code that would allow this new mode of transport. Celerina Monte/DMS