Homegrown motorcycle taxi operator Angkas said Thursday it is supporting the government’s public utility vehicle (PUV) modernization, but called for a more comprehensive approach to address the concerns of all stakeholders.
Angkas chief executive George Royeca said while the eco-friendly vehicle upgrades are laudable, there is a 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 about 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 these passengers and drivers,” he said.
Royeca proposed initiatives that empower the drivers’ 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 said it has been giving 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 advocates for their drivers through upholding dignity and respect for their work and contribution in the community.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. earlier extended the consolidation deadline for PUV until April 30 this year from the earlier schedule of Dec. 31, 2023.
Under the PUV modernization program, drivers and operators were required to form a cooperative or corporation that would allow them to avail of financial assistance and a government subsidy, to upgrade their fleet with low-carbon emission, safe and efficient units.