Manila: The implementation of the rule banning electric bicycles (e-bikes) and electric tricycles (e-trikes) on national highways is set to begin on December 1, as announced by Land Transportation Office (LTO) chief, Assistant Secretary Markus Lacanilao, during a press conference.

According to Philippines News Agency, Assistant Secretary Lacanilao emphasized that the primary concern is safety, despite the anticipated backlash. Vehicles of violators will be impounded since operators of e-bikes and e-trikes currently do not possess licenses. To mitigate the impact, an information campaign will be launched to educate users of secondary roads and discourage them from venturing onto national highways.

The announcement has sparked criticism from some members of the public. Bicol Saro Party-list Representative Terry Ridon expressed the need for the Transportation Department to differentiate between light electric vehicles meant for private use and those for commercial purposes. Ridon highlighted that the two categories should be treated distinctively, with only the latter requiring registration.

Ridon also pointed out that there is currently no legislation barring drivers from using major thoroughfares and national roads. He referenced the Electric Vehicle Industry Development Act (EVIDA), which permits such usage, to underscore his argument.