Time for strict enforcement

Many videos are appearing online where e-bikes, e-trikes, and e-scooters are shown on national roads and highways where motorists complain about how slow they are and should not be allowed in the first place. They also have no protection in case of an accident or mishap. In some instances, children are the ones operating these e-trikes. Most operators of these types of vehicles are not registered with the LTO, and operators have no licenses to operate them. So, the question is, is it time to ban them from the main roads, and require them to be registered and the operators licensed?

I believe it is. First, they must be prohibited from driving on the main roads or national highways. I found out that the local government units (LGUs) are obligated to enforce this. Recently, the DILG again reminded all LGUs to strictly enforce the ban on tricycles and pedicabs from using national highways. Now that the use of battery-powered vehicles such as e-trikes and e-bikes is widespread, the LGUs must also take action and ban them from busy, national roads.

Second, children should not be allowed to operate on public roads. I don't know why they are even allowed to in the first place. What if they figure in an accident? And what if they cause an accident? Are they or their parents accountable? They are not toys for use on public roads. Parents should know that.

Third, if they are using public roads, they must be registered, and the operator must be licensed. Some e-trikes are being operated as public transportation so they must have a franchise in the first place. Last February 5, the LGU of San Mateo, Rizal, began apprehending e-trikes, tricycles, and pedicabs plying the national highway. The first time a tricycle is caught, the fine will be ₱2,500. The same goes for the second offense. Caught a third time, the franchise or license will be revoked. E-trikes are immediately fined ₱2,500 for being on national highways.

Hopefully, more LGUs will follow suit and issue strict policies regarding the use of these vehicles. Many LGUs turn a blind eye or are too lenient on these vehicles lest they “offend” their voting base. For example, the ban on tricycles on national roads and highways has been around for a long time and yet we still see them plying these very roads and highways. If no alternative road is possible, then the LGU should mark the places where they can operate in such cases. The DILG must monitor whether LGUs are strictly implementing these laws. They are first and foremost for the safety of drivers, passengers, and everyone else plying the roads.