The passage of a proposed bill to regulate motorcycle taxis in the country could mark a significant step forward in ensuring passenger safety, generating jobs, and improving public transportation services. George Royeca, the Chief Executive Officer of Angkas, the leading motorcycle taxi company, expressed strong support for the measure in a statement released Monday.
Royeca extended gratitude to Senators Grace Poe and Raffy Tulfo for spearheading the push for the bill, emphasizing its potential to revolutionize the motorcycle taxi industry.
“The passage of this measure will ensure the safety of the riding public and enhance overall service quality, fostering a more reliable and secure mode of transportation for our commuters,” Royeca said.
Training at the Core of Safety
Central to the proposed regulation is a mandatory and ongoing training program for motorcycle taxi riders. According to Royeca, this provision will equip riders with the essential skills and knowledge to deliver safe and reliable services to commuters.
This focus on training aligns with Angkas’ existing practices. As the country’s first transportation network company to develop its own basic motorcycle driving program, Angkas has set the bar high for safety and service standards.
Based on a third-party audit by a Triple A assessor, Angkas has achieved an impressive safety record of 99.997 percent, cementing its reputation as the safest motorcycle taxi operator in the Philippines.
Job Creation and Economic Benefits
Royeca also highlighted the bill’s potential to create jobs for Filipinos, particularly breadwinners and those in the informal sector. “The measure will provide more opportunities for Filipinos to earn a stable income, enabling them to provide for the needs of their families,” he said.
The initiative is especially promising for older Filipinos looking for additional income streams, as motorcycle taxi services can offer flexible schedules and a steady source of earnings.
Legislative Support for Rider Welfare
Senator Grace Poe, a vocal advocate for the measure, praised Angkas for its proactive approach to rider training and safety. Poe commended the company’s leadership in prioritizing passenger and rider welfare, noting that Angkas has become a benchmark for quality in the industry.
The proposed bill aims not only to regulate the operations of motorcycle taxis but also to address larger societal issues, such as public transportation challenges, worker protection, and job creation.
Royeca reiterated Angkas’ commitment to advancing the welfare of its riders while addressing pressing issues in the public transport sector. “This measure supports the welfare of breadwinners, especially in the informal sector, while addressing urgent issues like public transportation, job creation, and worker protection,” he said.
A Step Toward Reliable Transport Solutions
Motorcycle taxis have become a popular mode of transport in the Philippines, particularly in urban areas plagued by traffic congestion. The passage of a regulatory bill could standardize services, improve commuter experiences, and boost confidence in the sector.
For commuters, the measure could mean safer rides, better-trained riders, and more reliable services. For riders, it promises a regulated environment that values their safety and economic well-being.
Looking Ahead
As discussions around the bill progress, stakeholders from both the public and private sectors are optimistic about its potential to transform the motorcycle taxi industry. With safety, training, and job creation as its pillars, the proposed measure could address the needs of millions of commuters while uplifting the lives of Filipino workers.
For Angkas and its CEO, George Royeca, the future of transportation in the Philippines looks promising. “This is more than just a bill; it’s a step toward a safer, more inclusive, and economically empowered Philippines,” Royeca concluded.