The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) recently issued Memorandum Circular No. 2026-048, which sets out the implementing rules for motorcycle taxi operations under Department of Transportation (DOTr) Department Order No. 2026-006.

The circular establishes the regulatory framework for motorcycle taxi services and sets standards for safety, accreditation and oversight. Several stakeholders have expressed concerns regarding the new regulations.

In a statement posted on its official social media page, KARIDERS (Kapatiran ng mga Riders para sa Karapatan) called on the government to suspend and review the memorandum, stating that several provisions could make it more difficult for motorcycle taxi riders to earn a living.

One of the group's concerns is the requirement for riders to obtain a Provisional Authority (PA) before they can operate. KARIDERS stated that the requirement adds an additional administrative process and could result in extra expenses for riders who are already facing rising operating costs.

The organisation also questioned provisions relating to fare regulation and rider onboarding. According to KARIDERS, regulating fares without ensuring that riders receive a sustainable income could reduce their earnings while platform companies continue to generate profits. The group also stated that the government should not intervene in rider recruitment without first conducting consultations with affected parties.

Another provision opposed by the organisation is the potential limitation on the number of accredited riders. KARIDERS stated that riders could be affected if transport network companies recruit more riders than the market can absorb, noting that many riders are still repaying motorcycle loans while covering fuel, insurance, maintenance and other operating expenses.

The group also raised concerns regarding the one-year validity of the Provisional Authority, which is linked to the issuance of a Certificate of Good Standing. According to KARIDERS, this could increase riders' dependence on platform operators, with those who question company policies potentially risking the certification required to continue working.

KARIDERS also opposed the prohibition on multi-homing, which prevents riders from working for more than one motorcycle taxi platform. The organisation stated that the restriction limits riders' ability to accept bookings from multiple providers.

The group also objected to provisions that it believes discourage collective action, including off-app protests and transport strikes. It stated that riders should retain the right to organise and engage in peaceful protest in accordance with existing labour laws.

Another concern raised by KARIDERS relates to the implementation of mandatory fare discounts. While the organisation stated that it supports the discounts required by law, it argued that the financial burden should not fall solely on riders and should instead be shared by platform companies.

Beyond the individual provisions, KARIDERS stated that motorcycle taxi riders were not adequately represented during the drafting of the memorandum circular. The organisation is calling for rider groups to be granted formal representation on committees and policymaking bodies responsible for future motorcycle taxi regulations.

Its recommendations include the suspension and review of LTFRB Memorandum Circular No. 2026-048, broader consultations with rider groups before new policies are implemented, and regulations relating to compensation, job security and riders' rights. The publication has contacted the LTFRB for its response to KARIDERS' statement. This article will be updated once the agency provides its comments.