LTFRB bans vlogging by MC taxi riders, violators face PHP 5,000 fine
Motorcycle taxis have become the go-to mode of transport for thousands of Filipinos looking for a fast and reliable way to beat Metro Manila traffic. But along with the daily rides came another trend, which is riders documenting their work online. With social media platforms offering monetization, many have turned to vlogging in hopes of earning a little extra on the side.
For many passengers, there’s nothing wrong with that, especially if consent is given before recording. But as far as the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) is concerned, the moment content creation distracts a driver from the road, it becomes a safety issue. In fact, doing so while on duty could cost a public utility vehicle (PUV) driver a PHP 5,000 fine, along with possible franchise and driver’s license sanctions.
LTFRB Chairman, Vigor Mendoza II, recently signed Memorandum Circular No. 2026-050, which prohibits PUV drivers from vlogging, livestreaming, or engaging with social media while operating their vehicles.
“We call on both the operators and drivers to be mindful of this law not only for the safety of all the people on board the PUV but also to all the other road users,” Mendoza said.
The rule applies to anyone operating a PUV, including jeepney, bus, UV Express, taxi, TNVS, and motorcycle taxi drivers, as well as other drivers transporting paying passengers under a public transport franchise.
The memorandum follows the LTFRB’s observation of a growing number of PUV drivers creating online content while behind the wheel, or in this case, handlebars. Mendoza reminded drivers that even a split-second distraction can result in a serious, or even fatal, road crash, stressing that passenger safety must always come first.
According to the LTFRB, recording videos, livestreaming, and interacting with social media while driving all fall under distracted driving and violate Republic Act No. 10913, or the Anti-Distracted Driving Act (ADDA). The agency said these activities endanger passengers, pedestrians, and other road users while also violating the conditions of a Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC), or franchise, which requires operators to provide safe, reliable, and convenient public transport service.
The LTFRB added that drivers do not even have to be caught in the act. Videos or livestreams uploaded to social media may already be enough for the agency to issue a Show Cause Order (SCO). Depending on the outcome of the case, the LTFRB may also ask the Land Transportation Office (LTO) to suspend or revoke the driver’s license, which then mean loss of livelihood for erring PUV drivers.
The memorandum circular is still undergoing the required publication and other legal procedures before it takes effect.
