THE Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has announced that motorcycles with 400 cubic centimeters (cc) or larger engines are no longer required to use designated motorcycle lanes on major Metro Manila roads.
The decision, based on what the MMDA cites as “international standards,” has drawn immediate criticism from riders of smaller motorcycles.
MMDA Chair Don Artes explained the change, stating that larger motorcycles, which share road space with slower-moving four-wheel vehicles, are no longer considered to benefit from the motorcycle-only lanes.
While lane-splitting remains permitted, the advisory issued on June 6th effectively removes the mandatory use of motorcycle lanes for larger displacement bikes.
However, the policy has been met with accusations of elitism and a lack of justification.
Outgoing 1-Rider party-list Representative Bonifacio Bosita, a large motorcycle rider himself, criticized the MMDA’s decision, calling it discriminatory and lacking a clear basis.
Bosita, also founder of the Riders Safety Advocates of the Philippines, highlighted the disparity between expressways, where larger motorcycles are allowed, and the slower-paced city roads of Metro Manila, arguing that the MMDA’s rationale doesn’t hold up under these different conditions.
He contends the new rule unfairly disadvantages riders of smaller motorcycles. The debate continues over the fairness and practicality of the MMDA’s revised policy.
