Homegrown motorcycle taxi operator Angkas supports the government’s public utility vehicle (PUV) modernization but on Thursday urges for a more encompassing approach that addresses the concerns of all stakeholders.
While applauding the eco-friendly vehicle upgrades, George Royeca, chief executive of Angkas, emphasizes the need to go beyond aesthetics and tackle commuter pain points like waiting times, schedules, payments, and driver livelihood concerns.
“The PUV Modernization program is truly a step in the right direction, but I think it’s incomplete. When we modernize PUVs, it’s not just the vehicles but the system,” Royeca said.
“The idea for this program should be able to address the concerns of the stakeholder, and uplift the lives of passengers and drivers,” he added.
For drivers, Royeca proposes initiatives that empower their livelihood, similar to Angkas’ approach of integrating informal motorcycle taxi riders into the system while offering benefits and tech tools for income stability.
“Upgrading vehicles might address the environment,” Royeca said, “but is that the sole purpose of modernizing our iconic jeepneys? What about the commuters and drivers struggling within the current system?”
Angkas has given its drivers access to financial institutions such as Pag-Ibig, Social Security System (SSS), and reliable loan services, fulfilling its commitment to the welfare of riders.
The Angkas system evidently advocates for their drivers by upholding their dignity, respect for their work and their contribution to the community.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. earlier extended the consolidation deadline for PUV until April 30 this year from an earlier deadline of 31 December 2023.
Under the PUV modernization program, drivers and operators are required to form a cooperative or corporation that allows them to avail of financial assistance and government subsidy, upgrade their fleet with low-carbon emission, as well as safe and efficient units.
