Driver-passenger shield greenlighted
Its operations have been suspended since mid-March following the imposition of the Luzon-wide quarantine, pending the government decision legalizing its use as a public utility vehicle
The government has approved the special protective shield proposed by ride hailing firm Angkas to avoid the spread of the coronavirus disease between driver and passenger preparatory to the resumption of operations.
In his Monday news briefing, presidential spokesman Harry Roque said the National Task Force (NTF) COVID-19 approved the proposal for immediate implementation.
Motorcycle taxis recently gained prominence as an alternative mode of transportation because of its ability to beat the traffic in congested areas like Metro Manila.
But instead of being installed directly on the motorcycle, the protective barrier is worn by the driver.
This was the second shield approved by the NTF. The first was the protective shield prototype attached to the motorcycle and designed by Bohol Governor Arthur Yap.
Although Angkas’ proposed shield has been approved for general use, Angkas itself is unable to use it as it is still not allowed to operate during the quarantine, considering that motorcycle taxis have no existing franchise.
Last week, the government allowed pillion riding but only for husband and wives, common-law couples, and live-in partners.
To prove their relationship, husbands and wives are required to present their marriage contract to authorities while common-law couples and live-in partners should bring IDs with the same address.
Angkas chief transport advocate George Royeca welcomed the development.
“The COVID pandemic has hit everybody and for the longest time motor-taxis are not allowed. We know where the government is coming from but we are hopeful we can stop the virus, especially on public transportation where everybody converges and there is that high-risk,” Royeca told the Daily Tribune.
“Our commitment to provide an alternative form of transportation remains true and we will continue to push for this. At the end of the day, our commitment is for the commuters and we will work tirelessly with the government to make sure we fulfill this promise,” he added.
Angkas recently became into a delivery service provider to provide economic relief to displaced partner riders.
“It’s been very hard for Angkas and our bikers in this COVID-19 situation because our core business is providing transportation service. But we are still hoping to get our transportation safety back,” Royeca said.
Motorcycle taxis recently gained prominence as an alternative mode of transportation because of its ability to beat the traffic in congested areas like Metro Manila.
Its operations have been suspended since mid-March following the imposition of the Luzon-wide quarantine, pending the government decision legalizing its use as a public utility vehicle.