Angkas CEO George Royeca on Tuesday called for a “whole-of-nation approach” to solve the country’s worsening transportation crisis, as the motorcycle taxi giant announced an 18 percent reduction in rider commissions to provide immediate relief to TNVS drivers.
Speaking before a joint congressional hearing of the committees on energy and transportation, Royeca stressed that rising fuel prices and operating costs require synchronized action from government, industry, and commuters.
“This is not a problem any single sector can solve alone. We need a whole-of-nation approach to protect livelihoods while keeping transport accessible,” Royeca said.
Angkas leads industry with commission cut
The company is lowering its standard commission rate from 20 percent to 18 percent, following consultations with One Rider Cong. Rod Gutierrez and transport committee chairman Cong. Brian Poe-Llamanzares. Angkas will also retain its tiered incentive system, allowing commissions to drop to zero percent for riders who rely on the platform as their primary source of income.
Royeca described the move as “concrete proof” of Angkas’ willingness to share the burden amid ongoing economic pressures.
“We are taking the lead in making difficult adjustments because our riders are at the frontlines of this crisis,” he said.
Additional support measures unveiled
Beyond the commission cut, Angkas is rolling out fuel and food vouchers, as well as discounts at partner gas stations. Royeca also urged the government to explore targeted fuel subsidies for public utility vehicles, noting that app-based tracking systems could make such programs both viable and transparent.
Royeca urges crackdown on illegal operators
During the hearing, Royeca called for stricter enforcement against illegal or “colorum” transport services and raised concerns over alleged violations of biker caps by competing platforms. He urged regulators to investigate reports of operators exceeding authorized limits, warning that such practices undermine driver incomes and commuter safety.
Lawmakers push for broader industry action
Following Angkas’ announcement, lawmakers called on LTFRB Chair Vigor Mendoza to engage other motorcycle taxi providers and encourage similar commitments across the sector. Legislators have increasingly pressed ride-hailing companies to reduce commissions, as drivers continue to absorb rising costs while fare adjustments remain limited to protect commuters.
First step toward lasting reform
Angkas said its commission reduction aims to strike a balance between driver welfare and commuter affordability, ensuring service reliability despite persistent cost pressures.
Royeca emphasized that the company’s actions are only a first step toward broader reform.
“The goal is clear: immediate relief for drivers and a long-term, coordinated strategy to stabilize the country’s transport ecosystem,” he said.#
