A LEGISLATOR has pushed for the immediate approval of a bill that seeks to prohibit motorcycle riders from carrying children three years old and below in Metro Manila and other progressive cities and towns.

Lakas-Kampi-CMD Rep. Maria Theresa Bonoan-David of Manila said House Bill 5345, or the Motorcycle Safety Act for Children, seeks to provide safety measures for all riders and passengers to avoid injury or death especially for children on motorcycles.

However, the bill will not cover the provinces where there are no considerable vehicular traffic and where motorcycles are the only means of transportation.

In filing the bill, David said recent accidents have occurred where children were severely injured while riding motorcycles because these children lack the development skills to pay attention and properly secure themselves while riding.

“The state recognizes its role to maintain at all times the safety and protection of children,” said David.

Invoking the power of parens patriae, David said the state may exercise its authority to usurp the rights of the natural parent or guardian and to act as parent of any child or individual, or an incapacitated and dependent person who is in need of protection against danger, risk to their lives and limbs.

She said during these times of rising oil prices and worsening traffic problems, many Filipinos are now using motorcycles as their primary means of transport.

“These vehicles are easier to maneuver during heavy traffic and are more fuel-efficient than cars. However, motorcycles are considered high-risk vehicles, both with respect to drivers and other motorists,” the legislator said.

The bill imposes a fine of P5,000 for the first offense, P8,000 for the second offense and P10,000 for the third and succeeding offenses.

It mandates the Land Transportation Office to formulate the rules for the effective implementation of the proposed act.