Senator Tulfo Raises Concerns About Angkas Helmet Hygiene
Angkas – The popular ride-hailing company faced scrutiny during a Senate hearing due to complaints about the cleanliness of their helmets.
Senator Raffy Tulfo led the inquiry after numerous reports reached him regarding the poor sanitary condition of the helmets. He shared that riders had complained about the smell and even the presence of lice, citing one case where a person who used the service later contracted lice.
“Ito maliliit na reklamo pero dumarami na, ‘yung helmet ng mga rider niyo paminsan linisin niyo kasi paminsan mapanghi, mabaho, may kuto,” he said. “Meron pa ngang sumakay [na] kakilala ko, hindi ko na babangitin, after a few days may kuto na siya: ‘Sir, may kuto na po ako.’ Paano yan?” the senator narrated.
In response, the company’s CEO explained that they have addressed the issue by rolling out new helmets and implementing sanitation procedures. They introduced charcoal sanitization for the helmets, began offering subsidized brand-new helmets, and deployed helmet cleaners at various stations. They also required riders to use shower caps for better hygiene. The CEO reassured the public that they were taking the necessary steps to improve cleanliness and safety.
Meanwhile, Angkas is a popular ride-hailing service in the Philippines that connects passengers with motorcycle drivers for quicker and more affordable transportation, especially in busy urban areas like Metro Manila. The service operates through a mobile app, allowing users to book rides in real-time. Angkas has become a preferred option for many commuters, as it offers a faster way to navigate through heavy traffic, making it a convenient alternative to traditional transportation such as cars or public buses.
The company has also made efforts to ensure safety by providing trained drivers, implementing safety protocols, and addressing issues like helmet sanitation. Despite its success, Angkas has faced regulatory hurdles, particularly regarding the legalities of motorcycle taxi services in the Philippines.