The Birth of Angkas

George Royeca and Angeline Tham founded Angkas in December, making it the Philippines' first app-based motorcycle ride-hailing platform. Angkas is a safe and affordable solution to providing an easier way to travel in the country's congested urban areas. By providing logistics support to small businesses and a sustainable livelihood to partner drivers, the platform has been a driving force for economic growth.

A Series of Shutdowns

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board suspended Angkas' operations in November, citing safety concerns and motorcycles' ineligibility for public transportation. Angkas suspended operations but reiterated its willingness to engage in discussions about transportation regulation and modernization. In December, "Angkas Padala" was launched as a parcel delivery service.

In September, the Mandaluyong City Regional Trial Court granted Angkas a preliminary injunction, preventing the government from interfering with its operations. The Supreme Court issued a temporary restraining order on the implementation of the Mandaluyong RTC's ruling allowing Angkas to resume operations in December. The DOTr then directed the formation of a technical working group to discuss motorcycle taxi regulation.

Motorcycle Taxi Pilot Program

After the formation of the TWG, Angkas was allowed to resume operations temporarily by the DOTr in May. A six-month pilot program for motorcycle taxis was then approved. The TWG's final report will be submitted to the House and Senate for legislative action on motorcycle taxi regulation. In December, the DOTr and TWG recommended extending the pilot program with a cap of 30,000 bikers. As a result, Angkas was asked to reduce its fleet from 27,000 to 10,000 bikers, sparking the #SaveAngkas movement.

The COVID-19 Pandemic

Due to COVID-19, motorcycle taxi operations were halted, and Angkas collaborated with the Red Cross to deliver test kits and even transport samples to labs. Angkas also provided free transportation to healthcare workers. Angkas co-led the highly regarded private-sector consumer campaign "Ingat Angat Tayong Lahat" during the pandemic. As part of their ecosystem at the time, Angkas focused on delivery businesses such as Angkas Padala and Angkas Pabili. They were able to keep their partner riders afloat while also assisting the community in remaining safe by assisting them with their needs while they remained indoors.

Change in Leadership

In November, Angkas announced that co-founder and Angeline Tham's husband, former Chief Transport Advocate George Royeca, will take over as CEO. Tham will remain active in the company even after stepping down as CEO.

The New Normal and Safety Training Program

COVID-related guidelines, including the prohibition on passenger helmet sharing, were lifted, allowing motorcycle taxis to operate under pre-pandemic guidelines. Angkas prioritizes safety, resulting in a 99.997% safety rating audited by experts. They make certain that their biker partners are committed to road safety, have received training in motorcycle use and equipment, and are knowledgeable about traffic laws. Their training program is the foundation for TESDA's Basic Motorcycle Program, which aims to professionalize biker training and benefit the country's 18 million motorcycle owners.