MOTORCYCLE ride-hailing platform Angkas (DBDOYC, Inc.) said it is currently in talks with local banks to provide more payment options to its users.
“Yes. When it comes to financial institutions, we’re weighing our options right now,” Angkas Chief Executive Officer Angeline Tham told reporters in Makati City on Wednesday when asked if the company is in talks with banks on adding more payment options in its platform.
She said Angkas is looking to add credit cards as one of the payment options on the motorcycle taxi app.
The three-year old Angkas is gaining popularity as commuters seek a faster and cheaper way of getting around Metro Manila.
However, Ms. Tham said the company has not made a profit, noting “that’s the price you pay for keeping safety standards.”
Asked when she expects the business to be profitable, she said: “We’re working on it right now. This industry, it has become more of an advocacy. It would take a lot of time. We want to do it. Profitability is in the horizon, hopefully more sooner than later.”
The six-month pilot run of motorcycle taxis in Metro Manila and Metro Cebu is set to end on Dec. 26.
George I. Royeca, Angkas head of regulatory and public affairs, told reporters separately that “the findings are positive.”
“I’m happy to say that this is something that we are able to maintain. We are working with DoTr (Department of Transportation) to maintain our service,” he added.
“Ayaw namin pangunahan. We are just hoping for positive comments from their end. Service for the bayan,” he added.
The pilot test of motorcycle taxis in Metro Manila and Metro Cebu is being conducted upon the recommendation of the DoTr’s technical working group (TWG), which set guidelines on fares, speed limit and safety gear.
The Land Transportation and Traffic Code, or Republic Act No. 4136, does not recognize single motorcycles to operate for public transport. The DoTr formed the TWG in December last year to address recommendations to include the two-wheeled vehicle as a legal transportation mode. — Arjay L. Balinbin
