An upcoming Filipino-owned motorcycle ride-hailing firm has secured the endorsement of the transport inter-agency technical working group (TWG) for its inclusion in the extension of the extended pilot run of motorcycle taxis.
The STAR reported that JoyRide and members of TWG conducted an onsite inspection and validation of the company’s training facility in Antipolo, Rizal last week.
The assessment of JoyRide’s facility is part of its pilot test guidelines following its qualification in the initial recommendation of pilot project implementation.
During the inspection, TWG’s Antonio Gardiola suggested the operationalization of JoyRide. The STAR reported that the motorcycle ride-hailing company has already invested a “substantial amount” to prepare for its eventual operations, including the construction of a 5,000 square-meter facility in Antipolo.
JoyRide has started recruiting potential riders since September and has trained 6,500 bikers in its facility to date.
Noli Eala, JoyRide vice president for corporate affairs, said that the company is not yet operating because its mobile app is not yet uploaded.
Despite that, the company’s riders are undergoing riding skills assessment and safety training to ensure that they meet very high standards.
“We will operate only once we have the approval,” Eala said.
The TWG is currently considering a six-month extension of the ongoing pilot test to allow new players to participate.
The pilot implementation, which will end on Dec. 26, involves only one player – motorcycle ride-hailing platform Angkas. – Richmond Mercurio
