JoyRide gets endorsement for pilot run

MANILA, Philippines — Upcoming motorcycle taxi service JoyRide has secured the endorsement of the head of the inter-agency technical working group (TWG) on motorcycle taxis for its inclusion in the extended pilot run.

In a statement, JoyRide said TWG members led by Antonio Gardiola conducted an onsite inspection and validation of the company’s training facility in Antipolo, Rizal last week.

The TWG assessed JoyRide’s facility in line with its pilot test guidelines after the firm qualified in the initial recommendation of pilot project implementation.

During the inspection, Gardiola had suggested the operationalization of Filipino-owned app-based motorcycle taxi.

JoyRide has already invested a “substantial amount” to prepare for its eventual operations, including a 5,000 square-meter facility in Antipolo.

It has started recruiting potential drivers since September and has trained 6,500 bikers in its facility to date.

Noli Eala, JoyRide vice president for corporate affairs, said the company recently entered into an agreement with the Philippine Red Cross to ensure the safety of the bikers and commuters.

It previously signed an agreement with Malayan Insurance Co. Inc. to provide it with the proper insurance coverage for the benefit and welfare of its fleet of bikers as well as the riding public.

Eala emphasized that the motorcycle taxi firm is not yet operating because its mobile app is not yet uploaded.

Nonetheless, JoyRide’s bikers are continuously undergoing riding skills assessments and an extensive safety training to ensure they meet very high standards.

“We will operate only once we have the approval,” Eala said.

JoyRide is a service to be offered by Move Things Philippines Inc., a local company which develops apps and software with the aim of providing mobility services.

The pilot implementation, which will end on Dec. 26, involves only one player – motorcycle ride-hailing platform Angkas.

The TWG is currently considering a six-month extension of the ongoing pilot test to allow new players to participate.