Angkas, the homegrown leading motorcycle taxi firm, said legitimizing the job of motorcycle rider, particularly from the informal sector of habal-habal (two-wheeled colorum service), is crucial in lifting them out of poverty..
Angkas chief executive George Royeca said all 50,000 Angkas drivers, many transitioning from the informal “habal-habal” sector, were lifted out of poverty.
The success story underscored the strength of partnerships in creating formal livelihood opportunities that manage to augment transportation in Metro Manila, he said.
Royeca said despite this achievement, the staggering number of informal workers were still awaiting formal recognition.
He said these individuals from different industries have long been contributing to the country’s economy, but do not have the same access to benefits that members of the formal sector do.
“The informal workers, such as boatmen, masseuses and habal-habal drivers are already working, but without the help of the government and financial services, and proper access to a lot of these different benefits. What’s missing are policies in our economy that recognize them,” Royeca said.
“Through recognizing the informal sector, we could reinforce their work, significantly boost the economy, and uplift millions of Filipinos almost overnight,” he said.
Royeca said this recognition could also be enhanced. Alongside access to government benefits, he underscored the need to provide avenues for economic mobility and fostering financial literacy.
He pushed for policies that extend beyond infrastructure development and encourage Filipinos to take charge of their financial situations.’
“On top of the infrastructure, which we know is being taken care of by the private sector, let’s take a look at the human aspect, the human capital and how do we make them informed and empowered members to strive in this economic ecosystem,” he said.
Royeca said formally recognizing these individuals is the first step to unlocking their full potential.
“The last frontier in human capital lies in empowering the individual workforce within each industry. It’s crucial that we push for the recognition and empowerment of the informal sector to foster nationwide progress,” Royeca said.
