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1 Marso 2024, Biyernes
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Register e-bikes, riders to secure license
By J.Lo
“Our proposal is very simple…as far as LTO is concerned, all light electric vehicles used in public highways, all roads maintained by government, must be registered with LTO and driver must be licensed,” Land Transportation Office (LTO) chief Vigor Mendoza said during consultation with stakeholders LTO is eyeing mandatory registration for all light electric vehicles and to require drivers to get licenses if they are to ply vehicle on any public road nationwide.
The possibility follows lead of Metro Manila governments that passed regulations on e-bikes, e-trikes and other light electric vehicles on major thoroughfares.
He said electric vehicles are subject to regulations set by Republic Act 4136, or the Land Transportation and Traffic Code.
While Mendoza noted plan is easier said than done, LTO has to exercise its regulatory powers to keep roads safe. If it pushes through, this would replace government policy that only requires registration of motorized vehicles can go beyond 25 kilometers per hour.
“RA 4136 says if it is motorized vehicle, then that vehicle must be registered with LTO and person driving it must be duly licensed…does distinguish vehicle speed,” he said.
LTO currently has seven categories for light electric vehicles, defined as motor vehicles with less than four wheels and have restrictions on maximum speed between 25-50 kph and maximum mass , these vehicles are typically used by mothers and individuals for short rides to markets and schools.
Mendoza said minors should not be allowed to drive these vehicles, although this is becoming more common occurrence.
Metro Manila Council earlier issued resolution outlining rules and regulations, including imposition of fines, to govern use of e-bicycles, e-tricycles, kuliglig and e-scooters on public roads.
Metropolitan Manila Development Authority also issued Regulation 24-022 series of 2024 to ban e-vehicles along major roads, such as circumferential roads Recto Avenue or C-1, Quirino Avenue or C-2, Araneta Avenue or C-3, EDSA or C-5, Katipunan Avenue and C. P. Garcia Avenue or C-5 and Southeast Metro Manila Expressway or C-6.
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