25,000 Angkas riders at risk of losing livelihood before Christmas —Angkas

Angkas on Wednesday lamented the Supreme Court’s order allowing the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to apprehend its rider-partners.

The SC has blocked the Mandaluyong Regional Trial Court (RTC) from implementing its directive that stopped the government from interfering in the business of the app-based motorcycle ride-hailing firm and its drivers.

“This TRO also puts the livelihood of 25,000 biker-partners at risk—a few days before Christmas, when their families need it the most,” Angkas head of operations David Medrana said in a statement.

In September, The Mandaluyong RTC allowed Angkas to resume operations pending a final decision from industry regulators. The court prevented the LTFRB and the DOTr from “interfering, whether directly or indirectly, with the petitioner’s operations.”

The LTFRB intends to apprehend Angkas drivers and operators on Wednesday. 

“We are saddened to hear that the Supreme Court issued a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) on an earlier court decision allowing Angkas to operate,” Medrana said.

“This comes at a time when hundreds of thousands of commuters need the Angkas service to beat the worsening holiday traffic,” he added.

Angkas operates in Manila, Makati, Pasig, Pasay, and Taguig, as well as in the areas of Balintawak, Eastwood, Katipunan, Monumento, New Manila, , Quezon City Circle, San Juan, SM North, and South Triangle.

Fares start at P50 for the first 2 kilometers, and P10 for every succeeding kilometer, but prices may vary based on demand.

“We offer our safety record of 99.997 percent as a potential model for responsible traffic safety nationwide,” Medrana said.

“We will continue our fight to serve commuters in a safe and efficient manner, as well as legitimizing our riders,” he added.

The company is hopeful that the Supreme Court will reverse its order and “eventually rule in favor of the Filipino riding public.” —Ted Cordero/VDS, GMA News