Riders of Personal Mobility Devices (PMDs), particularly electric kick scooters, have turned to social media to express their concern over Makati Parking Authority’s (MAPA) new policy. According to the apprehending officers, these PMDs are not allowed on major roads (even the bicycle lanes), and are only allowed to use the inner (barangay) roads.
We chatted with Tim Vargas of Electric Kick Scooter Philippines (EKSPH) who shared with MotoPinas.com that many of their members who work in Makati Central Business District (CBD) offices were flagged down by MAPA officers for using the bicycle lane.
MAPA is enforcing LTO’s Administrative Order 2021-039 that reads, “The operation of electric kick scooter shall be limited within barangay roads only.”
However, AO 2021-039 also states the following: “They may be operated on bicycle lanes or similar lanes designated by proper authorities. Driver/ rider of this vehicle is required to wear protective helmet similar to those designed for motorcycle riders. Driver’s license and registration are not required.” In the photos from EKSPH, it appears the apprehended rider was indeed on the bicycle lane.
Though MAPA traffic enforcers can’t issue a Temporary Operator’s Permit (TOP) ticket to these riders because they are not required to have a driver’s license, EKSPH says that the rider’s IDs and names were being logged. This is similar to how the city records pedestrian offences when he or she commits a jaywalking violation. MAPA has yet to comment as of this writing.
Endorsed by the government
Earlier this month, we published a story about the government’s big investment to promote active transportation in the country by building the bicycle lane network across Metro Manila, Metro Cebu and Metro Davao.
According to the Department of Transportation’s report, the government invested PhP 1.09-billion on bicycle lanes, to be used by cyclists and other active transport users, which is recognized under the Republic Act 11494 or the Bayanihan to Recover as One Act.
Many cities like Taguig and San Juan have allowed electric kick scooters to be used on the bicycle lanes of their main roads. Unfortunately, that doesn't seem to be the case in Makati.
