Tuguegarao warns vs. motorcycle-for-hire; Mayor Ting-Que challenges JoyRide to explain operations

TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan — Mayor Maila Ting-Que challenged motorcycle ride-hailing platform JoyRide on October 25, 2026 to explain why it continued recruiting and operating in the city despite being informed of local regulations requiring compliance with applicable permits and policies.

In a statement posted on her personal Facebook page on said date, Ting-Que said JoyRide had not applied for authorization from the city government and had been reminded during its recruitment activities that it must follow local ordinances and national government policies and guidelines.

“Ang JoyRide walang application sa City,” Ting-Que said, questioning why the company proceeded with its activities despite being informed of the rules.

“Mag-Operate ng walang paalam at permiso. Walang respeto sa gobyerno?” she added, asking why JoyRide had allegedly proceeded without the necessary notice and authorization.

The mayor also said the city government was protecting local motorcycle riders who were already operating businesses and complying with existing regulations.

“We also protect un mga andto na mismo na lokal na riders na nag nenegosyo. Sila sumusunod, kayo na dayuhan ang siyang gagawa ng gulo?” she said.

Ting-Que said she would be available to discuss the issue when she returned to the office on Wednesday, following her scheduled leave on Monday and Tuesday.

“I am on leave tomorrow and Tuesday, Wednesday i will be in my office ready to talk to anyone who wants to discuss this issue,” she said.

She also invited those claiming to represent the majority of commuting residents to participate in an open discussion on the issue, saying the city government was willing to hear arguments both for and against motorcycle-for-hire services.

“Un mga nagsasabing they represent the majority of the commuting public may join us and open the debate for and against, we will listen and so must you,” Ting-Que said.

The mayor’s statement followed the city government’s public advisory posted earlier on October 25 warning commuters against using unauthorized motorcycle-for-hire services, including JoyRide, Angkas, habal-habal and similar platforms or groups.

The advisory cited City Ordinance No. 047-08-2019, particularly Section 5.2, which prohibits motorcycles from carrying passengers for a fee. The city government said violations could result in penalties under applicable rules.

Ting-Que had also maintained that the ordinance, which took effect in 2019, remained in force and could only be amended by the Sangguniang Panlungsod. She previously said JoyRide had reportedly not secured the necessary city business permit and had not presented documentation showing authorization from the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to operate in Region 2.

The city government said its position was based on concerns over passenger safety, driver qualifications, vehicle roadworthiness, insurance coverage, safety equipment and mechanisms for handling complaints and emergencies.

However, the issue has also sparked debate among commuters and transport stakeholders over whether app-based motorcycle taxis should be allowed to provide another transport option in the city.

Supporters of motorcycle ride-hailing services argue that they could offer commuters greater convenience and an alternative to existing public transportation. Others have raised concerns about transport availability, fares and the need to regulate services rather than prohibit them outright.

Local tricycle drivers and operators, meanwhile, have livelihoods to protect and may face additional competition if motorcycle-for-hire services expand. Ting-Que said the city must also consider local riders who are already operating businesses and complying with existing rules.

The planned dialogue is expected to provide an opportunity for the parties involved to present their positions and clarify the applicable local and national regulations.

As of this writing, JoyRide’s response to Ting-Que’s latest statement was not available. The LTFRB’s position on the platform’s authority to operate in Tuguegarao City also needs to be established independently.