LTO: Ban tricycles from national highways

CEBU, Philippines - Land Transportation Office-7 regional director Raul Aguilos wrote Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama a letter asking him to strictly implement the policy banning the operation of tricycles along national highways.

Aguilos attached to his letter a copy of the memorandum circular issued by Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo reminding local government executives to comply with the order.

Aguilos also sent a similar letter to other mayors in Central Visayas for them to formulate ways on how to implement the DILG circular.

While the ban on tricycles from plying the national highways has been in place since decades ago, it was not strictly implemented in many municipalities.

Under the circular, no tricycle or pedicab should be allowed to operate along national highways.

However, LGU officials may allow the operation of tricycles along national highways if there is no other alternative route for them.

The circular also provides that the tricycles shall not be issued franchise unless the unit is equipped with the necessary lighting facilities, including chain guards, and that the unit is registered with the LTO.

Aguilos told Rama that the LTO is willing to assist the city in implementing the policy.

The LTO official said the operation of tricycles and pedicabs has been a good source of livelihood, but allowing them to traverse the national highways puts the lives of their passengers at risk. — Rene U. Borromeo/LPM (THE FREEMAN)