In a single pilot aircraft, the handling pilot is the PIC unless he/she is being supervised or instructed by a flying instructor.
In order for a pilot to regain 90-day currency (sic) to be entitled to carry passengers, he/she must carry out at least three take-offs and three landings as the sole manipulator of the controls either flying solo or under the supervision of a flying instructor.
Unequivocal fact, not a 'statement of opinion'.
While for SEP Class aeroplanes only, a qualified pilot may
familiarise another qualified pilot with a specific aircraft variant within the Class, this does NOT include regaining recency.
A pity it took an accident to remind people of the requirements for regaining 90-day recency.