‘Tis not the season to take advantage of our commuters
December 24, 2022CitizenWatch deplores in the strongest possible terms the reported overcharging, illegal contracting, and cancellation schemes by motorcycle taxis amid the holiday rush this year.
Application-based rides such as Angkas and Joyride have gained popularity among the riding public because of their relative convenience, safety, and affordability. They have become a viable alternative to the country’s poor public transport system, the arrogant behavior of some cab drivers, and the high prices of other transport network vehicle options.
But this year, with the resumption of the face-to-face mode of classes and work, with the relaxed mobility rules that have emboldened more people to go out of their houses, and especially given the Christmas season, commuters have reported nightmarish experiences in dealing with these popular motorcycle taxis.
Over the past few days, there have been numerous complaints on social media about Angkas or Joyride riders turning off their apps and instead acting as habal-habal – an unregulated, rouge mode of transportation – and asking for steep fees or mark-ups to their basic fees. But habal-habal rides are unsafe because they are not covered by insurance and there is no accountability between driver and passenger.
Some drivers cancel booked rides using the distance or heavy traffic as a lame excuse.
As a result, passengers desperate for a ride feel they have no choice but to give in to these demands; the alternative is not being able to go home or being late for their appointments.
CitizenWatch is one with Senator Grace Poe in calling for concerned government agencies to act decisively on such unconscionable practices. We also reiterate our call for the swift passage of the Motorcycle Taxi bill into law so that all players in this sector will be regulated and bound to a commitment to public service.
We understand that times are difficult, and that great need may be prompting these drivers to act against the interests of the people they intended to serve. Certainly, however, this does not justify taking advantage of the hapless Filipino commuter who is already so burdened by day-to-day survival challenges.
Christmas is the season to be kind, generous, and considerate of others. At the very least, motorcycle taxi drivers who take advantage of the high demand should be fair to their customers – they are, after all, just like them, working hard to earn a living and to find some modest way to celebrate the holidays with their loved ones.
Orlando O. Oxales
Lead Convenor