Why some Pinoy drivers prefer habal-habal despite presence of legal motorcycle taxi

Despite the presence of legal motorcycle ride-hailing app, some Filipino drivers stick to habal-habal or motorcycle for hire using social media, according to a Thursday report on Stand for Truth.

"Nasanay na po kasi ako sa habal, ma'am. Dahil nga tatlong taon na rin nasanay na rin po, kaya parang ayoko na rin po mag apply sa Angkas," Mark, a habal-habal driver, said.

With habal-habal, Mark said he could earn up to P1,500 per day.

"May listing po kami tapos may mga sumasakay po samin na, ano na, suki na. 'Yung mga kilala na kami diyan. Tapos minsan mga ligaw na tao, sumasakay samin. Tsaka wala naman po'ng pilitan 'yan sa mga tao sa sumasakay sa'min," Mark said.

Since January, authorities have arrested 23 habal-habal drivers.

Data from a motorcycle rights group revealed that there are over 200 habal-habal terminals in Metro Manila.

Habal-habal drivers arrested will be fined P6,000. Authorities will also suspend their license for three months and impound the motorcycle used for three months.

"Ipagpalit ba natin 'yung ating safety sa convenience? They're operating on illegal basis dahil hindi sila regulated. then that poses a danger not only to the public but, of course, to other road users," Land Transportation Office deputy director Bob Valera said.

Habal-habal rider Hannah, however, said that though dangerous, commuters will not think of the danger when stuck in traffic.

"Hindi mo na siya maiisip. Pag nandoon ka na sa sitwasyon na gustong-gusto mo na umuwi, wala ka na masakyan," Hannah said.

"Parang kasalanan maging mahirap sa Pilipinas kapag commuter ka," she added.

Watch the video to know more. —Joahna Lei Casilao/LDF, GMA News