Motorcycle taxi service Angkas has not yet resumed operations due to its ‘pending additional requirements’ set by the Transportation Department.
DOTr Assistant Secretary Goddes Hope Libiran in an interview said that Angkas has yet to comply with the requirement on thermal scanners and background checks on their drivers.
Angkas Chief Transport Advocate George Royeca clarified that the requirement for riders to use thermal scanners to check the temperature of passengers was not included in the guidelines issued by the National Task Force Against COVID-19. Royeca also said that Angkas have already complied with the background checks as riders are required to present their NBI clearance.
“If NTF will require us to comply, kami ay willing to comply with that. But as of now wala iyan sa guidelines,” Royeca said.
Over 6,500 Angkas riders who have tested negative for COVID-19 and passed government guidelines are expected to ply roads eight months since the suspension of operations.
Other motorcycle companies like JoyRide and Move It, will be able to operate as soon as possible once they pass the review.
The Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases approved the resumption of motorcycle taxi operations on Oct. 23 and its guidelines on Nov. 9.
Said guidelines require the passengers to bring their own helmet with a visor when riding a motorcycle taxi.
