Legal options available for motorcycle-for-hire accidents

By Rjay Zuriaga Castor

Passengers injured while using motorcycles-for-hire—often booked through informal channels—may pursue legal remedies, particularly in cases involving driver recklessness or negligence, Iloilo City Councilor Sedfrey Cabaluna said.

“They are colorums and they still continue to have risks. They can file necessary cases in court, especially in cases of injuries,” Cabaluna said in an interview on Friday, Aug. 29.

“If there is recklessness and negligence on the part of the driver, albeit he is colorum […] there’s still remedy on her part,” he added.

Cabaluna said his office is gathering facts related to a recent case and is open to assisting victims regardless of the service’s legal status.

His statement came after a call center agent raised concerns about a lack of accountability following an accident involving a motorcycle-for-hire rider she contacted through Facebook.

In a public post, the passenger recounted that the accident occurred when the rider’s motorcycle tire was punctured by a screw.

The impact reportedly caused the rider to fall and left the passenger with head injuries and partial immobility in her right arm and leg.

She claimed that while they initially agreed to settle the matter at the police station, the rider failed to show up.

The woman is now seeking reimbursement for her medical expenses and compensation for three days of missed work.

Cabaluna emphasized that the core issue surrounding these services is public safety.

He warned that using informal motorcycle-for-hire services poses serious risks due to a lack of insurance, safety checks and the potential for abuse or criminal activity.

“We’ve already expressed the dangers. There are a lot of issues that should be addressed on that matter,” he said.

Cabaluna acknowledged the economic demand for these services and the income they provide to some individuals.

However, he said public safety must remain the top priority and should not be compromised.

He pointed out the regulatory gap, as no national law currently legalizes or governs informal motorcycle-for-hire operations.

He clarified that while these services are known to exist, this recognition does not equate to legal permission to operate.

He added that discussions on regulation and legalization are still in their early stages.

Cabaluna also noted that the Land Transportation Office is conducting entrapment operations by monitoring online platforms where these services are being promoted.