Editorial

Franchising the ‘habal-habals’

This  recent, the motorcycle taxis in Metro Manila, they call the “angkas,” had a dry-run set by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board incidental to the proposed or call for the legalization of these motorcycles-for-hire. We call these motorcycles here as “habal-habal,” which has its roots in the countryside as public transport service. Its patronage, but minus franchise and welfare/security clause, has the advantage of traffic maneuverability, speed and time saving, and interior area penetration.

        In the metropolis dry-run, the rider and passenger, the back rider, have to put on safety helmets. The rider/driver has to wear a  designed, reflectorized suit with safety handles by which commuters/passengers can hold on other than the driver’s shoulders. The rider also has information tag on him. The safety factor is assured. CLICK ABOVE TO READ THE RELATED ARTICLE...

        In Cotabato City alone, we have several of these “habal-habals” but still with no legalization for public transport purposes, which is to the disadvantage of the commuters in case of accidents, abuse, or maltreatment. The fare is unregulated from the least P20 to near places and P40 to P50 for a bit distant travel… the fees/fares are akin to taxi charges upon motion. In the metro dry-run, the fare is specified on kilometerage so to protect the commuter or back riders from exorbitant fares.

        If the dry-run merits the operation of these motorcycle taxis, its legalization could well be adopted nation-wide under rules and regulations in their operation. This would mean riders or owners of these two-wheel taxis have to apply for franchise and comply with the regulations and safety/protective measures for the operation. This would be fine for both the rider and commuter, the latter needing the motor service for immediacy of travel, going peripheries, or private trips under two-wheel drive.

        Mind you, the law on motorcycle use have yet to be strictly implemented or enforced such as those involving safety nets on the riding children and/or commuters. It is a must that those using two-wheel vehicles be extra cautious on their driving… As they say: “In driving/riding a motorcycle, half of your life is six feet below the ground.” Truly, it’s safer to ride on four-wheeled vehicles and it’s better that motorcycles are driven by the rider alone. But there is still a need for other mode of transportation.

        A number of riders have resorted to “habal-habal” business for need to earn income as main livelihood or as extra sum, hence, this becomes a transportation investment needing legalization for the welfare and protection of the users and the patrons. It means, riders have to be keen on traffic rules and regulations and be sensitive to the safety of motorists/commuters/passengers.

        Its legalization and franchising would also mean added revenue for the government coffers, national and local governments. To do business is to secure permits and pay the necessary bills and taxes. So be it then if motorcycle taxis would be franchised. Safety first, of course.

        If these be legalized, do these units contribute further to traffic jams, not to mention the existence of the “payong-payong?” In big cities or major thoroughfares, lanes for the motorcycles become necessary.