TNVS, motorycle taxis help riders, communities affected by Carina, Habagat

Ride-hailing app Grab and motorcycle taxis Angkas and Move It have provided assistance to riders and communities affected by the onslaught of Tropical Cyclone Carina-enhanced Habagat. 

Angkas CEO George Royeca on Wednesday, around 1,000 families of its riders from the cities of Pasay, Manila, and Taguig have received aid and support from the firm following the inclement effects of the weather last week.

“Our bikers are part of our family. It's crucial to look after our family, particularly through challenging periods like what we're experiencing. I hope that our actions have offered them some relief and encouragement to recover from the aftermath of Typhoon Carina,” Royeca said in a press release.

Grab and Move It also conducted a series of relief operations.

The volunteers, composed of drivers and riders, visited Caloocan City; Montalban, Rizal; Malanday, Valenzuela City; Navotas City; Pasay City; and Marikina City to distribute more than 2,500 relief packages.

Further, over 3,800 cleaning kits and hygiene sets were also donated to various organizations and local government units.

The two firms also introduced a Loan Payment Holiday, which temporarily halts the daily collection of payments on existing loans for drivers and riders.

This initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden on their partners, enabling them to better navigate through these challenging times brought by the bad weather.,

Royeca said the support includes distribution of rain gear, financial aid, grocery supplies, and Xteer engine oil to the riders. Angkas also facilitated wellness forums to engage with the bikers directly, emphasizing the company's support and solidarity.

Angkas is also offering complimentary motorcycle repairs at the Tagumpay Center for the riders whose vehicles suffered damage due to floods and heavy rains.

The firm implemented Signal Zero, which is an initiative that reduces Angkas commissions to 0% and will allow bikers to keep the entirety of a day’s fares.

Metro Manila was placed under a state of calamity on July 24 amid severe flooding. Malls and other establishments provided shelter, parking spaces, bathrooms, and internet signal.

Carina exited the Philippine Area of Responsibility on July 25. —RF/VBL/NB, GMA Integrated News