Earlier today, the Mandaluyong City Regional Trial Court granted a preliminary injunction to ride-hailing service Angkas, which prevents the government from interfering with their operations until a final ruling is made.
The governing bodies in power and Angkas have rarely gotten along, and it seems that trend is set to continue. Following the court's decision, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) issued a statement on the matter. They explained that they were "saddened" by the injunction.
"Our position is that motorcycles registered in the service are not authorized to conduct business and offer public transport under Republic Act 4136. For them to be allowed, the law has to be amended by Congress."
They explained that these private motorcycles who are accepting passengers for a fee are doing so without their authority, and are therefore considered colorum. They reiterated their promise to clear the streets of any and all colorum vehicles.
"Safety is our priority. Following our laws is our priority. Obviously, Angkas is just interested in making profit, and profit, alone," the government agencies added.
Judging by the way both parties are reacting to the matter, it might be a while before an amicable solution is found. What do you guys think?
