The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) issued a warning to Angkas, after the ride-hailing platform allegedly onboarded driver partners lacking a professional driver’s license.
“There are accounts that right after the Senate hearing the non pro drivers were immediately removed from the platform which is a very serious accusation. The number one requirement under the law if you will be allowed to operate PUV must be pro license,” LTFRB chairman Teofilo Guadiz III said, referring to reports that Angkas drivers with no professional driver’s license were removed from the platform.
The LTFRB’s pilot program for motorcycle taxis mandates professional driver’s licenses for riders to ensure safety and compliance with public transport standards.
“If a TNC [transportation network company] or PUV [public utility vehicle] company allows a non pro driver to use these cars in ferrying passengers, that’s a ground for a possible suspension or revocation of their franchise,” Guadiz said.
“It is prohibited because it’s a safety issue. We’re investigating that. We are taking the accounts who were off board. If can just get one to execute a written statement, that is sufficient enough to suspend the TNC,” he said.
Motorcycle taxi riders recently removed from Angkas are calling on Guadiz to intervene, alleging that the company failed to fulfill its onboarding commitments, particularly on professional licensing.
The dismissed riders expressed willingness to upgrade their licenses and comply with requirements if given the opportunity to return to the platform.
George Royeca, Angkas chief executive, said, “All our bikers undergo professional training. Our training program meets the highest standards in the industry and is even adopted by TESDA. We take pride in our safety record, which exceeds 99 percent, and the only record that is validated by a reputable audit firm.”
“To ensure we maintain these industry-leading safety standards, we deactivate bikers for a variety of reasons when necessary. Should any complaints be raised with our regulators, we are fully prepared to address them through the proper channels,” said Royeca.
The LTFRB earlier issued a show cause order to Angkas to explain the alleged violation of motorcycle taxi cap.
Angkas was given five days from receipt to formally respond to the show cause order.
