Angkas ordered closed by Makati

MANILA, Philippines — The city government of Makati on Thursday ordered the closure of the motorcycle ride-hailing company Angkas due to the lack of a business or mayor's permit.

In an order of desistance/closure dated November 9, the Office of the Mayor of Makati City said Angkas Training Center located in Natividad Building in Chino Roses Avenue Extension, Makati City does not have a business or mayor's permit.  

The authorities said the lack of a business permit violates Section 4A.01 of the Revised Makati Revenue Code or Ordinance No. 2004-A-025.

“You are hereby commended to cease and desist from further operating your business establishment until such time compliance with the said ordinance made,” the order read.

In a statement, Angkas said that they will comply with the regulations of Makati City.

"We look forward to discussing the Board's concerns with Angkas and find a way towards regulation for this space," Angkas said.

"On behalf of its bikers, Angkas has always been open to regulation. We believe that the motorcycle taxi industry will benefit greatly from proper regulation to ensure standards of safety, training, and covered with the proper insurance to protect the riding public," it added.

As of 7 p.m., the Angkas app still allows users to book motorcycles.

The authorities said the violation was determined after an actual verification conducted by inspectors Oliver Ian Loyola, Archie Gamboa, and Kzec Ivcon Paguio in coordination with Land Transportation Franchising Regulatory Board and Land Transformation Office and Highway Patrol Group last Thursday.

The office of the mayor said “the business establishment operates as a habal-habal type of transporting customers but without necessary business permit to operate.”

The order was signed by Claro Certeza City Administrator and Michael Arthur Camina City Legal Officer.

Meanwhile, a radio report said at least 19 Angkas riders were also apprehended in Taguig and Mandaluyong cities on Thursday after the LTFRB conducted an operation. It said the company lacked training of its drivers.