A traffic stop on Skyway Stage 3 in July has led to a fresh request for clarification from the Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) over the use of bike racks on the expressway.

The issue started after a businessman was stopped by traffic marshals while carrying a motorcycle on his pickup truck. We also heard from cyclists who said they had been stopped for carrying their bicycles on racks.

The marshal told the businessman that SMC Infrastructure, which operates Skyway Stage 3, had instructed them to apprehend motorists carrying motorcycles on pickup beds or motorcycle racks.

The businessman was eventually allowed to leave, but the incident got motorists asking if there was actually a rule prohibiting the practice.

AutoIndustriya.com asked the Land Transportation Office (LTO), Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC), and SMC Infrastructure if there was a written rule or memo covering the use of pickup beds and racks to transport motorcycles.

The LTO and MPTC said there was no such prohibition, provided motorists comply with existing traffic laws. SMC Infrastructure did not respond despite multiple follow-ups.

TRB wants answers from SMC Infra

In a letter dated September 24, 2026, former LTO chief and now TRB Executive Director, Jose Arturo Tugade, asked SMC Infrastructure to explain what the agency described as “numerous inquiries and complaints” regarding the use of bike racks along Skyway.

“In view of numerous inquiries and complaints received, this Office seeks to clarify the existing policy and/or practice governing the use of bike racks along Skyway,” Tugade said in the letter.

The TRB said its records show no specific policy or directive prohibiting or restricting the use of bike racks for transporting bicycles.

“Based on TRB records, no specific policy or directive has been issued by this Office prohibiting or restricting the use of bike racks for transporting bicycles,” the letter added.

SMC Infrastructure was given five days to respond. The company was asked to provide details on the incident, along with the legal, regulatory, or operational basis for any restrictions imposed on motorists.

While the TRB letter specifically refers to bicycles and bike racks, the question also affects motorists carrying motorcycles on pickup beds or motorcycle racks. Both are designed and commonly used to safely transport bikes and motorcycles, making SMC Infrastructure’s response important for motorists who use these methods on Skyway.