REPRESENTATIVE Ramon Rodrigo “Rodge” Gutierrez of the 1-Rider Partylist has issued a fervent call to the Senate to expedite the passage of the Motorcycle-for-Hire bill. This legislative measure, which has significant implications for thousands of Filipino workers, has been pending in the Senate despite its approval in the House of Representatives in July 2024.
The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has highlighted the urgency of passing the Motorcycles-For-Hire Act to secure the employment of 60,000 motorcycle taxi riders. As the current pilot program for these services is set to conclude with the end of the 19th Congress, and without legislation to legalize their operation, these jobs could be lost.
“It is our responsibility to secure these jobs and provide a framework that not only legalizes but also regulates this mode of transportation, ensuring both safety and economic benefits for our citizens. The Motorcycles-For-Hire Act is not just about maintaining jobs; it’s about advancing our transportation infrastructure in a way that reflects our current needs and future aspirations. I urge my fellow legislators in the Senate to prioritize this legislation to prevent the loss of these vital jobs and to continue supporting an innovative solution to our urban mobility challenges.” Gutierrez said.
1-Rider Partylist thanked the House of Representatives and Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez for recognizing the importance of Motorcycles-For-Hire, HB 10424 was a priority of the House and approved 200 votes, 1 against and 0 absentation. He further emphasized that the Motorcycle-for-Hire bill aligns with the directive set by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. to improve transportation accessibility and efficiency across the nation.
“We at the 1-Rider Partylist have worked tirelessly to ensure the approval of this crucial legislation in the lower house. Our commitment was evident through our active participation in all committee hearings, technical working group meetings, and plenary sessions leading to its passage.” Gutierrez added.
Rep. Gutierrez extended his thanks to Senator Grace Poe, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Public Services, for her recent statement urging the passage of the Motorcycle-for-Hire bill in the Senate. “Your support is pivotal in moving this bill forward for the benefit of our nation’s workforce and commuters,” he remarked.
The 1-Rider Partylist remains committed to advocating for policies that enhance the safety, rights, and welfare of motorcycle riders and the broader transport sector in the Philippines. We continue to monitor and support this bill’s journey through the legislative process, hopeful for its prompt enactment into law.
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