Manila: Electric bicycles (e-bikes) and electric tricycles (e-trikes) will be prohibited from operating on major roads starting December, as announced by transportation officials. Budget sponsor Sen. JV Ejercito revealed that the Land Transportation Office (LTO) chief, Assistant Secretary Markus Lacanilao, is committed to beginning the apprehension of e-trikes on public roads by December.
According to Philippines News Agency, Sen. Raffy Tulfo supported this initiative, highlighting the challenges faced by traditional tricycle drivers who adhere to franchise, registration, licensing, insurance, and membership requirements. Tulfo pointed out that while e-bike and e-trike operators do not undergo the same processes, they still share road space with traditional vehicles.
Tulfo announced that e-bikes and e-trikes would no longer be permitted to operate starting December 1. He emphasized the difficulties authorities face when e-vehicles are involved in accidents or violate traffic rules, as issuing citations becomes problematic. The LTO informed the senators that any e-bike or e-trike involved in a road incident would be automatically impounded.
Tulfo clarified his position, stating he is not opposed to e-bikes or e-trikes but believes they should be confined to safer areas, such as inside subdivisions. Ejercito agreed, noting that while barangays and subdivisions might allow them, e-bikes and e-trikes will be strictly prohibited on main thoroughfares.
Tulfo urged the LTO to promptly notify local governments through the Department of the Interior and Local Government to prevent confusion among riders. Ejercito mentioned that Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez and LTO officials would coordinate with the DILG, ensuring that local government units are informed starting Friday.
Additionally, Ejercito stated that the LTO and the Department of Transportation (DOTr) will conduct further studies and public consultations on the registrability and safety of e-bikes and e-trikes before establishing long-term regulations.
