ABSTRACT
The descriptive-evaluative study was conducted to describe the guidelines, implementation and outcomes of the Motorcycle-for-Hire Ordinance in the Municipality of Leon. One hundred eighteen respondents answered a researcher-made questionnaire, and inputs gathered during a focus group discussion. The data were analyzed quantitatively using frequency count and percentage. Thematic analysis was used for qualitative data. Findings revealed that most respondents were old, evenly split by gender, and primarily college graduates, with drivers, operators, and students as the top occupational group, generally earning P10,000 or less monthly. The guidelines provide a framework for safety, compliance, and effective management of motorcycle-for-hire services. Respondents viewed the ordinance "highly favorable," especially in terms of compliance, driver safety, and skills. Key outcomes included increased transportation access, income opportunities, and revenue generation, though calls for stricter enforcement and enhanced measures were noted for recommendations.
Keywords: Motorcycle-for-Hire, Implementation, Community Acceptance, and Outcomes
INTRODUCTION
Background of the study
Under the general welfare clause of Republic Act 7160, otherwise known as the Local Government Code of 1991, every local government unit shall exercise the power expressly granted, those necessarily implied, as well as powers necessary, appropriate, or incidental, for its efficient and effective governance, and these that are essential to the promotion of general welfare. In addition to promoting health and safety, peace and order, economic prosperity and social justice, the preservation of the comfort and convenience of the inhabitants is expressly provided (Section 16, Chapter 2, R.A 7160).
In pursuit of this legal mandate, local government units such as the provinces, cities, municipalities, and barangays enact laws and ordinances that they believe will help them improve the quality of life of people within their areas of jurisdiction.
In the Municipality of Leon, an ordinance was enacted in prescribing the guidelines for the issuance of annual registration fee for the motorcycle for hire. It is for the drivers and/or operators to secure an annual registration fee sticker. This ordinance was enacted due to the absence of existing guidelines for the issuance of annual registration fee and authorizing the motorcycle-for-hire as a mode of transportation in the Municipality of Leon.
Moreover, there are existing laws that apply to motorcycle used on highways. Republic Act No. 4136 known as the “Land Transportation and Traffic Code.” mandates the compile of laws related to land transportation and traffic rules, to create a land transportation commission, and other purposes.
Additionally, the Philippine Congress has been urged to fast-track the passage of House Bill No. 8959 also known as Motorcycles-for-Hire Act, which will authorize the LTFRB to legalize the operation of motorcycles as public utility vehicles. Since R.A No. 4136 prohibits the use of two-wheeled vehicles for public transport, it clearly does not allow motorcycles to be classified as ‘for hire’.
The DOTr on the other hand issued a department order legalizing motorcycles-for-hire which should be based on existing laws and the issuance of the said DO violates the temporary restraining order issued by the Supreme Court against motorcycle ride-hailing firm.
Furthermore, for Sen. Poe it is the high time motorcycles have been recognized as a safe and convenient mode of public transportation in the country. After more than four years of continuous studies by the technical working group, it now appears, without doubt, that commuters are overwhelming in favor of legalizing motorcycles taxis.
In the Municipality of Leon, one of the common modalities of transportation when going out of town especially in far- flung areas is the motorcycle or habal- habal. It is also source of living for some members of the community.
To regulate the use of these motorcycles, specific guidelines and set of rules have been recognized by the local government units. The role of local level guidelines or policies in the operations of local public transport is quite important since it has a great effect in the over-all conduct and operation.
However, the creation of guidelines of the Municipality of Leon have sparked differring opinions and point of views among the members of the community regarding the implementation and outcomes.
The researcher has decided to conduct the study with the hope of gathering evidence-based data that would help resolve controversy of allowing motorcycles as a mode of transportation.
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