MANILA, Philippines — Sen. JV Ejercito wants mandatory social protection and health coverage to 6.13 million tricycle and motorcycle drivers.
The senator earlier filed Senate Bill (SB) 2165 providing for a Magna Carta of Tricycle Drivers and Operators to promote the welfare of the tricycle sector.
He said tricycle drivers and operators should also become members of the Social Security System, Philippine Health Insurance Corp. and the Pag-Ibig Fund.
Ejercito said that most drivers lack mandatory coverage under the SSS and PhilHealth, "leaving them vulnerable to financial ruin in the event of illness or accidents."
He said the tricycle sector "serves as the 'last mile' backbone of Philippine public transportation, filling critical gaps in areas inaccessible to larger vehicles."
This sector provides a "primary livelihood" for millions of Filipino families, he said.
"By elevating the status of tricycle workers from 'informal volunteers' to recognized partners in national development, we strengthen the resilience of our local transport systems," Ejercito said.
He said that despite their vital contribution to local economies and mobility, tricycle drivers and operators "remain among the most marginalized members of the informal labor force".
"Drivers and operators are frequently subjected tio precarious working conditions, including a lack of social safety nets, exposure to health hazards, and inconsistent local regulations," he said.
Current policies under the Local Government Code of 1991 delegate the franchising of tricycles to local government units (LGUs), often resulting in fragmented standards for fees, permits, and terminal rights, he said.
SB 2165 seeks to simplify the franchise application process and capping exorbitant local fees to prevent extortion and "colorum" operations.
The measure also provides for regular health check-ups and hazard pay during public health emergencies or extreme weather conditions.
It also establishes a dedicated office within LGUs to mediate disputes and protect drivers from harassment.
