Angkas eyes framework for motorbike-taxis

MANILA, Philippines — Angkas yesterday welcomed the move of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to form a technical working group to look into the possible use of motorcycles as an alternative mode of transportation.

The embattled motorcycle ride-hailing firm said it looks forward to talking with the DOTr as they have always pushed for the regulation of the sector. 

“This is very much welcomed and we look forward to working with regulators to develop a framework for motorcycle-taxis,” George Royeca, Angkas head of regulatory and public affairs, said. 

The DOTr has apparently made a 180-degree turn on the issue and said that it is open to talking to listen to Angkas on the possible regulation of its operations. 

Royeca said they are “happy and ecstatic” that the government is already willing to go into dialogue. 

“We are more than hopeful, we are ecstatic and happy for our drivers. It has come a long way. People are getting it now,” he said in a press briefing. 

DOTr Secretary Arthur Tugade said they are willing to work with Angkas if the firm does not defy the Supreme Court (SC) that issued a temporary restraining order that gave the government back the authority to apprehend bikers. 

Tugade said that while the SC decides on the  legality of Angkas’ operation, they can already thresh out solutions on using motorcycles for public transport. 

Some concerns raised by the DOTr are what type of motorcycles should be allowed, travel speed, seat and helmet requirements, as well as training for drivers. 

The issue on responsibility and accountability during accidents should also be discussed, the DOTr said. 

Royeca claimed that they were able to achieve a 99.97 percent safety record on their rides and noted that there have tallied zero-casulaty on their rides.