In January 2024, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) announced that it is looking into a potential policy change that, if implemented, will require e-bikes of all sizes, engine types, and speed classifications, to be registered.
Any proposal of this kind will potentially stir mixed feedback from a highly reactive Filipino crowd, but more seem to favor its implementation, suggesting that the policy reinforces road safety and responsible driving.
E-BIKES EVERYWHERE
A wide selection of electrically powered vehicles, mostly two- and three-wheelers, has taken private and public transportation in the Philippines by storm.
It has become the common Filipino’s ride of choice for virtually every task there is, from delivering food to bringing kids to school.
It is popular for a reason. Its relatively low base price of P20,000 - P25,000 makes for a viable option. E-bike owners seem to not mind the additional electric cost, and its compact size adds to its convenience.
Some have gone so far as to brand e-bikes as the new “hari ng kalsada” just for their sheer volume on the road, both in rural areas and in the metro.
Many have also taken notice of some drivers’ road manners, citing their seemingly unapologetic use of major thoroughfares and highways that, for one, are technically prohibited as per LTO’s guidelines.
Motorists have resorted to social media to air their e-bike-related concerns, uploading dashcam clips that show obstructive driving behavior and the like.
NETIZENS, E-BIKE OWNERS REACT
Netizens who turned to the comment section of a GMA News post regarding the issue generally expressed support for the proposed implementation.
“Yes registration & license for drivers, kasi kahit mga edad na 15 pababa gumagamit nyan kahit subd, di man lang masupervise ng magulang. Pag nakasagi ng sasakyan or nakabangga sino mananagot eh di magulang din,” said one netizen.
“Yes sila n Kase Ang Bagong hari Ng kalsada,” another commented.
Some sentiments, however, prefer that e-bike drivers acquire a license in order to operate their vehicles, much like how it works for other road users and motorists.
“Kahit hindi na irehistro basta license ung nagdridrive mostly kasi ng naka ebike walang alam sa traffic rules, sa edsa kahit red light bumabanat sila. 
“Minimal registration fee siguro or wala na basta need ng license para mag drive ng ebike. Yung tipong kelangan nilang sumunod sa traffic rules dahil kasama sila sa pwedeng mahuli at matiketan,” echoed a comment.
Some e-bike owners themselves have expressed a similar point of view regarding their situation. In separate virtual interviews, they talked about the importance of going through a process before being able to use their e-vehicles, which includes lecture sessions on road rules and safety regulations.
“Having these registered means that the only drivers that are allowed are the ones who are also licensed. This will give those who still don't have the opportunity to be educated about the different laws and regulations on public roads and highways,” said Bacoor City native Brian Hernandez, who only uses his e-bike when for nearby errands.
“Have them undergo the same procedures that we do for drivers of proper vehicles that are actually roadworthy. Let them know every piece of information that they need. This will ensure not only their safety but also that of the people that surround them,” added Brian when asked whether the registration proposal is necessary.
An e-bike owner from Naga City supports the policy and has emphasized the urgency for drivers to be aware of responsible road sharing.
“I support mandatory ebike registration primarily as a safety measure for riders and other road users. I see this as a responsibility because we’re sharing roads with other vehicles and pedestrians,” the respondent said, who’s an NGO Communications Officer in Naga.
Another Naga City native also supports the proposal. An avid e-bike user, she thinks it’s a viable commuting alternative - more economical than making use of public transportation.
“I am for mandatory e-bike registration, especially for those e-vehicles running over 50kph, because this is for public safety,” she explained. “It is good that in Naga City, the local government gives free seminars for e-bike users. This is a great way to encourage e-bike riders and drivers to have knowledge and understanding about traffic rules and regulations.”
SOME E-BIKE POLICIES IN ASIA
There has been a vast and unprecedented increase of electronic bike production and popularity across Asia, with reports that its highest population and usage saturation can be found within the region. This development was impacted positively by the pandemic, as commuters and motorists have opted for more compact, reliable, and budget-friendly vehicles as a viable alternative.
According to a local media report, Japan's road traffic laws require all types of bikes, both manually pedaled and electronically powered, to be registered. Drivers don't need to procure a license to operate those with engines that only allow a 24 kph top speed. The ones that exceed this limit are categorized under the 'motorbike' classification which requires the following: official driver’s license, a license plate, brake lights, turn signals, and registration papers.
In China, laws surrounding the ownership and use of e-bikes vary based on local governments’ prerogative. According to a report published on Tsinghua China Law Review, Beijing, the country’s national capital, requires drivers to have an official license and a formal registration approved by the local government unit.
Malaysia’s policy on e-bikes is relatively more lax. As per its Road Transport Department's official portal, there are no specifications that mandate drivers to have a license to operate these vehicles, nor are their registration requirements. E-scooters, mopeds, Personal Mobility Devices, and Personal Mobility Aids, however, are prohibited from traversing public roads, stated a recent policy change in 2022, though e-bikes and e-trikes are allowed to move around cities through major thoroughfares.
In Indonesia, there are no strict mandates that require e-bike riders to have their vehicles registered, nor do they need a driver’s license. The Indonesian Transportation Ministry, however, laid down some road-sharing ground rules that include the integration of safety vehicle equipment such as headlights, reflectors, brake systems, and horns. E-bikes must not also exceed the 25 kilometers per hour speed limit.
