Buckle up, Angkas Riders! Here's 10 New Motorcycle Taxi Rules

(Screenshot from the Angkas website)

Buckle up, bike riders – we have 10 new rules!

The government's inter-agency technical working group (TWG) is announcing major changes in the motorcycle taxis' short but impactful pilot run.

This came after a public outcry over the decision of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to enforce a limit on the number of riders of Transport Networking Companies (TNC) in Metro Manila. Earlier, the LTFRB has allowed entry to two more bike-taxi firms: JoyRide and Move It apps.

Here's the 10 new features of the Motorcycle Taxi Guidelines.

1. The TWG or a designated information technology expert will have access to each provider’s database for validation and verification.
2. All riders will have to register with the LTFRB to form a database of participating riders. The providers will submit a list of riders registered in their platform.
3. The providers must also submit data on any modifications or updates to their mobile application on a monthly basis.
4. Instead of a vest-based strap, riders must now wear a belt-based strap with at least 4 handles that can be held on to by the passenger for stability.
5. Riders will be registered under one ride hailing platform only.
6. The indication for dynamic pricing (1.5x surge cap) has been removed.
7. Motorcycle requirements have been changed from 100-200 cubic centimeter (cc) conventional engine displacement to 100-150 cc.
8. Ride-hailing platforms found operating outside the pilot run will be blacklisted from applying and operating should motorcycle taxis be legalized.
9. The LTFRB will be providing guidelines for the collection of registration fees from participating providers and riders. The amount and payment process has not yet been stipulated.
10. The pilot run may be extended for another 3 months upon recommendation by the TWG. If motorcycle taxis get legalized in the course of the pilot run, the TWG and the pilot implementation will expire.

Since the successful launch by motorcycle ride-hailing firm Angkas, the bike-taxi app had helped motorcylists earn income, created thousands of opportunities for small business owners, and gave a low-cost transport option for the public.

Two bike apps also has since developed into one-stop super-apps allowing users to order on-demand services such as food and grocery delivery, like the Grab Food and LalaMove apps.


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