Angkas, Joyride Can Resume Pilot Run, Says Palace

The pilot run of motorcycle taxis will resume, upon approval from the Inter-Agency Task Force on COVID-19,  Malacañang said Friday.

The Land Transporation and Frachising Regulatory Board will release guidelines on the return of motorcycle taxis, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said.

Lawmakers earlier called on authorities to allow motor taxis to resume and give commuters another option during the seven-month-long quarantine that limits train, bus and jeep capacity.

ALSO READ: 
Hold That Virus Barrier for Backrides, Motorcycle Makers Say
You'll Need Your Own Helmet When Motor Taxis Return

Motorcycle taxis include Angkas and Joyride, which have motor riders picking up passengers from one point and carrying them to their destination. Due to the close contact and helmet-sharing between passengers, operations were suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic as a safety precaution.

Plastic barriers between rider and passenger were an option to make operations possible, but groups warned authorities of the safety hazards of riding with the shield as it can disrupt the balance of the motorcycle.

Prior to the IATF's approval, officials said motorcycle taxis may return, but passengers will have to bring their own helmets for safety purposes.