LRT-1 private operator Light Rail Manila Corporation (LRMC) successfully concluded its “HER Story: Celebrating Health and Well-being, Empowerment, and Resilience of Women at LRT-1” campaign promoting physical and mental well-being as part of National Women’s Month this March.
The campaign culminated in a two-day activation from March 21 – 22, 2024 at LRT-1 Central and United Nations stations by offering free health screenings conducted by LRMC’s partner health providers including mWell, Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, De Los Santos Medical Center, and ManilaMed.
“At LRMC, we recognize the vital role women play in our society. Through ‘HER Story,’ we hope to empower our female passengers by providing them with access to resources and support to learn how they can prioritize their health and overall well-being. We are grateful for the collaboration with our healthcare partners who helped us achieve this goal,” said LRMC Head of Corporate Communications and Customer Relations Jacqueline S. Gorospe.
Female passengers were treated to various free health checks, including blood sugar screening, blood pressure checks, blood glucose tests, and body temperature monitoring. Partner health providers also offered additional giveaways to passengers who participated in activities at their booths. mWell, a participating health provider, delighted passengers with a raffle featuring smartwatches as prizes.
This initiative serves as a testament to LRMC’s commitment to creating a more inclusive and empowering environment for its passengers. LRMC hopes to contribute to a stronger and more vibrant community by prioritizing women’s health and well-being.
For more updates and info on the LRT-1, follow LRMC on Facebook at facebook.com/officialLRT1, X (formerly Twitter) at @officialLRT1, or download the ikotMNL mobile app for free on Google Play and App Store.
Moovr is the simple solution to getting you ahead. Take charge of your own Mooves through the city and through life, one convenient ride at a time. Moovr’s newest electric-powered rides are available in expanded locations visible through their improved mobile app, making it easier for you to get where you’re going for the most affordable price in the city.
Moovr offers an economical alternative for your daily travels, allowing you to get to your destination for as low as P25. Being 100% cashless and self-serviced, you can use digital credits for seamless and affordable transportation. The app allows you to check real-time ride availability across stations in BGC, Mckinley Hill, and Makati where you can instantly rent a device, eliminating the need to navigate through traffic or wait for a ride. Simply open the app, locate the nearest device, and end your ride in multiple convenient locations in these cities.
Control your commute, manage your errands, get to school, or work at your own pace with Moovr’s newest rides available all over the city.
“We noticed the majority of our riders take long rides and we want to offer them a more comfortable riding experience. We looked at other cities in the world where micromobility has been successful, and adopted the same technology in our devices,” said Carlo Rombano, Head of Operations at Moovr.
Moovr brought devices used in first-world cities to Manila at a price point that’s accessible to Filipinos. Adapting to local consumer needs and demands.
“Our adaptability also extends to our app. With our latest update, we’ve applied comprehensive features that don’t just make every ride efficient but an enriching exploration,” added Shiela Raña, Head of Operations.
The new features include encrypted payments, which allow riders to save their details and top up with a single tap on a button, as well as an adaptive user interface that lets riders see parking areas, and vehicle details such as their availability, battery levels, and ride rates.
“At Moovr, we believe in redefining the way people move through their cities. Our commitment to innovation and user-centric design aims to inspire a sense of empowerment with every ride,” said Raña.
Moovr is committed to catering to your individual transportation needs. Last, January 13th, they launched two new ride options - the electric-powered bike and their upgraded e-scooters.
For the first time, Moovr’s bikes are going electric. This makes it easier to breeze through the city with less effort. The e-bikes feature a sturdy basket for quick errands, and are specifically designed for Filipinos. Meanwhile, the upgraded e-scooters also feature a sturdier base, and better suspension for bumpy roads and surfaces, perfect for longer commutes, or simply riding around town for a breather.
These newest e-bikes and scooters are designed not only for efficiency but also to enhance the overall ease of unlocking the city. Whether it's breezing through traffic during the daily commute or leisurely cruising through the city streets, Moovr's new ride options provide an unparalleled level of convenience.
See how to ride better, and keep up to date with Moovr through their social media pages (Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram).
Ready to ride? Download the Moovr app now to unlock the city. Don't miss out on the fun, check out the newest e-bike and e-scooters at the nearest Moovr station near you through the Moovr application available on the Google Playstore and Apple app store.
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About Moovr
Moovr PH is a Metro Manila–based bike and e-scooter sharing that aims to provide mobility for every Juan. Moovr provides easy mobility for Filipinos wanting to beat the city traffic.
The leading superapp officially launches its flagship
mobility service in Cagayan De Oro, expanding its portfolio of services in the
city which is currently composed of GrabFood and GrabTaxi
Grab
officially launched GrabCar in Cagayan De Oro City as part of its commitment to
the economic empowerment in the region. Photo above shows Grab Philippines Head
of Mobility EJ Dela Vega [Center-Left] with CDO Councilors George Goking, Romeo
Calizo and Malvern Esparcia; and officials from LTFRB Region 10
CAGAYAN DE ORO, 18 January
2024 - Grab Philippines, a dedicated partner in the
nation-building efforts of the government, is strengthening its commitment to
economic empowerment in Cagayan De Oro. With the official launch of its
flagship mobility service GrabCar, Grab is not only providing Kagay-anons with
a viable transportation option but is also creating a new avenue for generating
livelihoods and stimulating economic activity in the City of Golden Friendship.
GrabCar
is a beloved and trusted mobility service for Filipino commuters. Built on a
foundation of safety, reliability, and cost-effectiveness, GrabCar stands as an
effective mobility alternative for the Filipino commuting public. GrabCar
currently services the area from Laguindingan Airport up to the end of Lapasan
and Upper Balulang.
Cagayan
De Oro is the second city in Mindanao to welcome the GrabCar service,furthering the leading superapp’s mission to
create sustainable opportunities and foster economic growth across the region.
Grab
Philippines Head of Mobility Marketplace EJ Dela Vega shares, “Our superapp
model allows us to know and deeply understand Kagay-anons best - from the way
they commute through GrabTaxi, to the way they enjoy their everyday meals
through GrabFood. Grab continues to be attentive to the needs of the market and
we believe that now is the right time to offer Kagay-anons a mobility solution
that not only meets their everyday needs but also positively contributes to the
long-term success of CDO.”
Cagayan
De Oro Mayor Rolando "Klarex" Uy also underscored the strong
partnership of the city with the leading superapp. “Cagayan De Oro actively
forges partnerships with industry leaders like Grab as we make strides toward
our vision of solid economic performance and a thriving citizenry. The launch
of Grab in our city has given Kagay-anon entrepreneurs, drivers and riders
access to a robust marketplace that fosters high-success potential – something
only a superapp ecosystem can offer. We are glad to welcome GrabCar and are
excited to see the new opportunities it is bringing for our kabayayans,” Mayor
Uy shares.
The Grab Superapp Journey in
CDO: A Long-Standing Commitment to Economic Empowerment
In
an effort to digitalize the taxi ecosystem in Cagayan De Oro, Grab launched
GrabTaxi in 2015. Since then, Grab has been forging close partnerships with key
taxi operators in the city. This collaboration has resulted in the onboarding
of hundreds of GrabTaxi driver-partners, enabling them to substantially boost
their earnings potential through increased bookings facilitated on the
platform.
As
Southeast Asia’s leading superapp, Grab has also expanded its presence in CDO
outside of mobility with the launch of GrabFood in May 2020. This addition has
proven to be instrumental in fostering a thriving ecosystem for local
entrepreneurial ventures, regardless of their size. By democratizing access to
user-friendly growth tools, cutting-edge technology, and capacity-building
programs, Grab has empowered MSMEs to achieve sustainable growth on the
platform. One outstanding example of a homegrown CDO merchant-partner that has
experienced equitable success on Grab is Frkn Burger. Since its launch on Grab,
Frkn Burger has achieved a remarkable ten-fold increase in its average weekly
delivery orders and has also opened its second branch. This earned them a
well-deserved spot among the prestigious Golden Grab Awardees for 2023.
An Expansive Horizon of
Partnership
As
a devoted partner for economic empowerment of the Cagayan De Oro local
government, Grab Philippines will continue to leverage its technology,
extensive network of highly engaged users, and community-focused approach to
unlock new possibilities for growth and prosperity. Dela Vega notes, “The
horizon of collaboration between Grab and the local government of Cagayan De
Oro continues to be expansive. Together, we're orchestrating a future of
sustainable opportunities that create pathways for local everyday entrepreneurs
to realize their aspirations. This is a testament to the transformative power
of partnership, innovative technology, and the boundless potential of the
Filipino spirit.”
__________________________
About Grab
Grab is a leading superapp in Southeast
Asia, operating across the deliveries, mobility and digital financial services
sectors. Serving over 500 cities in eight Southeast Asian countries - Cambodia,
Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam
- Grab enables millions of people everyday to order food or groceries, send
packages, hail a ride or taxi, pay for online purchases or access services such
as lending and insurance, all through a single app. Grab was founded in 2012 with
the mission to drive Southeast Asia forward by creating economic empowerment
for everyone, and strives to serve a triple bottom line: to simultaneously
deliver financial sustainability and have a positive social and environmental
impact in Southeast Asia
Grab Philippines officially reintroduces its pet-friendly mobility service GrabPet, giving pet parents better access to safe, reliable and convenient transportation as they move about with their beloved furry, feathered, or even scaly companions.
GrabPet, as a
specialized on-demand service, is designed to help passengers ferry their pets
to various destinations, including veterinary clinics, groomers, pet-friendly
cafes, and more with just a tap of a button. Initially available in select
areas of Metro Manila, GrabPet-ready driver-partners are all set to onboard
dogs, cats, turtles, hamsters, rabbits, and fish on rides.
To ensure top-notch
transportation for GrabPet passengers, animal-loving driver-partners with
spacious six-seater vehicles were purposefully tapped for the GrabPet fleet,
even undergoing comprehensive training in handling pet-related bookings. All
GrabPet rides also come with added insurance to ensure the well-being of the
pets on board.
“As a pet parent
myself, I understand how challenging it can be for Filipinos to bring their
animal companions to essential services and even leisure trips given the
limited transportation options available. As an expression of our dedication to
addressing the varying transportation needs of commuters, we have launched
GrabPet. It is our firm belief that safe, reliable, and convenient mobility
services should be accessible to everyone – even families with winged or
four-legged friends,” shares Grab Philippines Chief Operating Officer Ronald
Roda.
Working Together for Above-Par, Pet-Friendly Rides
In a bid to
safeguard both the safety and convenience of passengers as well as to preserve
the pristine condition of the driver-partners' vehicles, Grab Philippines has
enforced a set of requirements for individuals utilizing the GrabPet service.
●Pets should be accompanied by
human passengers.
●Pet owners should also refrain
from booking rides for pets with parasites and/or fleas
●Pet owners can bring a maximum of
two small and medium-sized pets or one large pet per ride, subject to the
discretion of the GrabPet Driver-Partner.
●A maximum of four passengers can
accompany the pet(s) during the ride.
●Pets are also required to be in
diapers and inside carriers.
Roda adds, “We are committed to ensuring that
owners and their pets are safely and conveniently transported to their intended
destination while also preserving the integrity of the vehicle of our
driver-partners. A driver-partner’s vehicle is their means of livelihood, hence
by collaborating with us in maintaining high hygiene and safety standards
during the GrabPet ride, pet parents help in making sure that our
driver-partners can go about their day worry- and hassle-free.”
For more information and updates on GrabPet,
visit this link.
In a strategic move to emphasise its commitment towards travel, the digital arm of Capital A, airasia Digital announces its transformation into MOVE Digital (MOVE). This rebranding marks an exciting chapter in its next phase of growth through both its businesses, airasia Superapp and BigPay.
Capital A CEO and MOVE Executive Chairman Tony Fernandes (center) together with new airasia Move CEO Nadia Omer (left) and BigPay CEO Subin Rada Krishnan (right) during the big announcement in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
MOVE’s travel platform business, airasia Superapp will also undergo a brand refresh and change its name to ‘airasia move’ in the near future as part of the ongoing transformation.
The visionary co-founder of AirAsia and CEO of Capital A, Tony Fernandes will assume the role of Executive Chairman of MOVE. He will play a pivotal role in driving the close collaboration between both airasia Superapp (now airasia move) and BigPay to unlock the true potential and synergy of these digital businesses.
“The name MOVE signifies us better as the digital arm of Capital A, and reiterates our commitment to move people, ideas and innovation forward within the travel space. Imagine seamless access to travel and financial services on one single platform, with integrated financial features such as balance display, top-up and payments from BigPay and further strengthening the value proposition of airasia move as the travel app of choice. My role as the Executive Chairman of MOVE will be to enhance synergy between both businesses. With this change, the market can expect an enriching user experience aside from more integration of BigPay features within the airasia Superapp (now airasia move) very soon” said Tony Fernandes, Executive Chairman of MOVE.
In this new era of travel innovation for MOVE, we are happy to welcome Nadia Omer into the organisation as the new Chief Executive Officer of airasia move effective 26 October. Her key priority will be to further drive airasia move’s vision as a low-cost travel platform with high conversion, while closely collaborating with BigPay, led by Zubin Rada Krishnan. Mohamad Hafidz, who is currently the acting CEO will continue leading the business in the interim and I would like to thank him for his contributions throughout the past few months.”
The airasia Superapp, or what will be called airasia move soon, has swiftly become a one-stop travel platform offering value and convenience through seamless end-to-end booking experiences within the past two years, while BigPay has established itself as an innovative fintech provider enabling Southeast Asians to improve their lives through better financial management.
Both of Capital A’s digital businesses have been making significant strides, with airasia Superapp (now airasia move) reaching its highest recorded MAU (monthly active users) of 15 million at the end of the second quarter, while BigPay saw its carded users grow by 16% YoY for the same period.
MOVE Digital Sdn Bhd (formerly known as airasia Digital Sdn Bhd) is the digital arm of Capital A Berhad, and encompasses two transformative businesses: airasia Superapp (now airasia move) and BigPay. MOVE is dedicated to revolutionising the travel and financial services sectors by offering innovative, user-centric solutions at the best value.
Philippine Airlines (PAL), the national flag carrier of the Philippines, has launched PAL Holidays powered by Expedia Group, a one-stop travel website that offers travelers a seamless and comprehensive platform for all their travel needs. The new site is now live in the US, Canada, Australia, and Philippines.
The new platform is powered by Expedia Group’s White Label Template technology and designed to help passengers effortlessly plan and book their entire journey—including PAL flights, hotels, transportation, and exciting travel activities, all in one convenient location. We are thrilled to introduce PAL Holidays, our new one-stop booking platform that simplifies and enhances the travel planning process for our passengers. By partnering with Expedia, we are confident that our customers will enjoy unparalleled access to a superior range of great offers for hotels, experiences, and transport that can go together with the Philippine Airlines flights that they book. PAL Holidays reflects our dedication to providing exceptional travel experiences, and we look forward to serving our customers in a more convenient and efficient way,:" said Bud Britanico, VP for Sales at Philippine Airlines.
The New PAL Holidays Website powered by Expedia Group. Your new one-stop booking platform for all your travel needs
PAL Holidays marks a significant milestone in the airline's commitment to enhancing the travel experience of its valued customers. With Expedia Group long-standing reputation as a reliable and trusted travel platform, travelers can be assured that PAL Holidays will deliver exceptional service and value:
Access to Hotel Accommodations Worldwide
PAL Holidays provides travelers with access to over 900,000 properties across the globe, enabled by the collaboration with renowned global travel platform, Expedia Group. The vast selection of accommodations, from budget-friendly options to luxurious resorts, ensures that there is something for every traveler & preference and budget.
All-in-One Booking
PAL Holidays allows travelers to access a wide array of services in one transaction, encompassing PAL flights, hotel accommodations, transportation, and travel activities. From the comfort of their homes or while on-the-go, travelers can effortlessly tailor their perfect itinerary.
Exclusive Promo Deals
PAL Holidays will feature exciting promotional deals and exclusive offers, making travel dreams even more attainable. With great discounts and carefully curated packages, travelers can explore more destinations and create unforgettable memories with their loved ones.
“We are thrilled to team up with Philippine Airlines for PAL Holidays. We share the same vision of transforming and easing the way travelers plan and book their journeys. With our combined expertise and service, we are excited to offer a seamless travel platform that will be of great help to travelers,” said Greg Schulze, Senior Vice President, Strategic Travel Partners at Expedia Group.
Travelers can experience the ease and convenience of PAL Holidays by visiting the website. Discover a new era of travel, where booking PAL flights, hotels, activities, and transportation needs is as simple as a few clicks!
Companies launch Gogoro Smartscooters® and Battery-Swapping Pilot in Metro Manila, announce public availability by Q4 2023
Globe Capital Venture
Holdings Director Bernie Llamzon, Ayala Corporation Chairman Jaime Augusto
Zobel de Ayala, Gogoro Founder and CEO Horace Luke, Globe Group President and
CEO Ernest Cu, and 917 Ventures Managing Director Vince Yamat at the launch of
the Gogoro Smartscooters®
and Battery-Swapping GoStation
ecosystem in the Philippines.
Globe Group’s 917Ventures, Ayala Corporation, and Gogoro Inc. on Monday made history as they launched Gogoro Smartscooters® and battery-swapping in the Philippines. The companies are introducing a new era in sustainable transportation that brings together smart, convenient and accessible electric two-wheelers to customers.
The announcement was made at a ceremony at the Globe headquarters in Bonifacio Global City where the three companies also announced the commercial public release of Gogoro Smartscooters® and battery-swapping stations in Metro Manila in Q4 2023.
“We in the Globe Group are very proud to bring Gogoro Smartscooters® and battery-swapping to the Philippines, a transport ecosystem that marries mobility innovation and sustainability. This year, Filipinos will have access to these electric two wheelers and Gogoro’s convenient and cost-efficient battery-swapping technology, another first in the Philippines,” said Globe Group President and CEO Ernest Cu at the launch.
Gogoro’s launch is the Globe Group’s debut in the climate tech space, as it continues to deliver innovations that address Filipinos’ daily pain points. As a better transportation alternative, Gogoro aims to address commuter woes on expensive gas prices while helping curb carbon emissions, in line with the partners’ shared commitment to sustainability, and the Philippine government's sustainable development agenda.
It also marks the Philippine entry of Gogoro, a brand that has transformed two-wheel mobility in Taiwan and fostered a new smart mobility industry with a network of eco-friendly businesses and end-users. In addition to Taiwan and the Philippines, Gogoro is also operating in China, India, Japan, Indonesia, Korea and Israel.
Horace Luke, Founder and CEO of Gogoro, said the company is excited to bring the Gogoro ecosystem to the Philippines and is committed to replicating its success in Taiwan, where Gogoro has 540,000 riders and has deployed more than one million smart batteries at 12,000 battery-swapping stations. Gogoro riders have swapped more than 450 million total swaps, 400,000 per day, and Gogoro has saved more than 627,000 tons of CO2 since it launched.
“Our partnership with the Globe Group and Ayala Corporation in the Philippines is a major milestone in our mission to transform urban transportation and provide an accessible path for riders to adopt sustainable urban mobility and play a key role in battling climate change and making the world better for all. We look forward to working together to deliver a sustainable transport system that will improve air quality, reduce carbon emissions, and provide a superior riding experience for consumers in the Philippines,” Luke said.
At the event, the partners unveiled the first Gogoro battery-swapping station at The Globe Tower – the start of a network of Gogoro battery-swapping stations planned to be established initially in Metro Manila and eventually across the country.
They also announced the Gogoro pilot in Globe, where 70 employees will be the first to try out the Gogoro Smartscooters® and battery-swapping. They will test the system for two months starting in May and share insights on their experience to ensure an even better customer experience once the e-bikes become available to the public later this year.
"The Gogoro ecosystem is very convenient as its swap-and-go technology allows riders to swap out depleted batteries for charged ones in just seconds and go on their way. With the current traffic situation in the metro, these Smartscooters® will serve as an eco-friendly alternative to ease congestion while at the same time reducing carbon emissions,” said Bernie Llamzon, Globe Capital Venture Holdings Inc. Director.
917Ventures Managing Director Vince Yamat, meanwhile, thanked the government’s support for the shift to EVs as he cited the importance of enabling policy for electric vehicles to succeed in the country.
It’s as easy as swap and
go with the Gogoro battery-swapping station.
“The shift to EVs, particularly deploying Gogoro’s battery-swapping system, will go a long way with sustained government support that will allow private sector initiatives to prosper. Sustainable transportation projects are, after all, aligned with the government’s long-term agenda to promote environment-friendly transport options and foster digitalization as mobility needs of Filipino individuals and businesses rise,” Yamat said.
The Globe Group, 917Ventures and Ayala Corporation consistently lead the way in utilizing technology to enhance the lives of Filipinos and safeguard the environment through their innovative change-making initiatives.
Manila, Philippines – Philippine Airlines (PAL) celebrates its 82nd anniversary with a heartfelt video highlighting the airline’s resilience and commitment to the Filipino people amidst the challenges of the pandemic.
The flag carrier marked its 82nd year in the midst of a recovery journey and is keen on further improving its services and enhancing the travel experience of its valued customers.
The anniversary video features PAL’s employees and frontliners who have been instrumental in ensuring the safety of its passengers despite the hurdles in the past two years. The video also showcased the airline’s efforts in transporting vaccines and connecting Filipinos across the world during these trying times.
“Words cannot express how grateful we are for the continued support of our customers who have stood by us during these challenging times. Your unwavering support has been instrumental in our ability to continue providing safe and reliable services amidst the pandemic,” says PAL’s director Lucio Tan III.
In line with its commitment to its customers, PAL has also announced its plans for the future. The national flag carrier is gearing up to expand its fleet amid the projected growth in passenger volume. PAL is also preparing to expand its route network and introduce new service innovations.
"At PAL, we remain committed to providing our passengers with world-class travel experiences. We appreciate your continued patience and support as we undergo improvements and innovations in the coming months that will allow us to further elevate our services.," stated PAL President and COO, Captain Stanley Ng.
As the Metro Manila Subway Project (MMSP)
construction comes into full swing, Capitol Commons will continue to be fully
operational for guests to enjoy along with its wide array of food options from
various merchants and restaurants here at Estancia Mall!
Here are the four alternative entry points for
guests who intend to enter Estancia Mall, namely:
● Shaw Boulevard cor. Camino Verde Road
● Meralco Avenue cor. Anda Road
● Meralco Avenue to Estancia West Wing
Basement Parking
Cairo, Egypt -J&T Express ("J&T"), an international express logistics company, announced that it has officially launched its network in Egypt. This is another major step in J&T's expansion in the Middle East North Africa (MENA) region, following the Company’s launch of the network in the UAE and Saudi Arabia and announcement of establishing a smart logistics park in Riyadh. This latest expansion brings J&T Express’ global network coverage to a total of thirteen countries, expanding its global delivery network to Africa markets beyond Asia and Latin America.
E-commerce in the MENA region is fast catching up with global powerhouses. Egypt, as the most populous Arabic country, represents one of the most diversified economies in the MENA region. The total revenue of ecommerce in Egypt reportedly reached $5 billion in 2021. In line with the National e-Commerce Strategy, Egypt aspires to harness the power of e-commerce to help catalyze innovation, growth, and social prosperity in the digital economy. The rapidly growing e-commerce market presents significant opportunities for the express logistics industry. J&T Express has established one sorting center and 10 distribution centers, with its distribution network covering the full country except the North Sinai military command area. Following the company’s entry into Latin America earlier this year, it is an important step for the company to continue to further cultivate emerging markets and expand its strategic global footprint.
J&T Express Expands MENA network coverage to include Egypt
Charles Hou, Group Vice President of J&T Express, said, " J&T is an independent e-commerce enabler, offering express delivery solutions to leading e-commerce platforms. By leveraging our expertise of providing efficient and convenient services through our growing global operation network, J&T Express is set to contribute to the faster development of e-commerce in the MENA market and the launch in Egypt bears testament to our commitment to the region. “
Patrick Chen, Head of J&T Express Egypt, said, "In view of rapidly increasing internet penetration, the Egyptian market is well-positioned to tap on existing opportunities to further e-commerce development. J&T Express is excited to establish a refined service network in Egypt and offer an efficient, convenient and quality logistics experience to local retailers and customers."
Meanwhile, CEO of J&T Express Philippines Dean Ding is proud to share another milestone of J&T Express. From our recent Brazil launch, now, we are building stronger presence in the Middle East with our newly launched network in Egypt. We, at J&T Express Philippines, are excited about this another expansion and we are proud that we have successfully penetrated MENA region. More countries from the Middle East can now experience and enjoy J&T Expressperience xpansion and we are proud th.”
With its network launch in Egypt, J&T Express' network now spans thirteen countries including Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, Cambodia, Singapore, China, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Mexico, Brazil and Egypt, and serves over 2.5 billion people. Since its official launched in the Philippines in 2019, J&T Express continues to be one of the fastest and most reliable delivery service in the country. For more information, you may visit www.jtexpress.ph.
Private operator of LRT-1 Light Rail Manila Corporation (LRMC) joins the nation in celebrating the 124th Philippine Independence Day on 12 June 2022 with special promotional offers for commuters.
Starting 12 June 2022, the total cost of a new beep™ card with load will be PHP50 from the previous total amount of PHP100. The cost of the beep™ card itself remains at PHP30, but the minimum load required for new beep™ card purchases has been reduced to PHP20 from the previous amount of PHP70. Passengers may avail of this special offer until 30 September 2022 at LRT-1 teller booths only. beep™ cards have a validity of four (4) years, which is subject to extension upon request at the LRT-1 stations.
“We are launching this initiative to make beep™ card more accessible, more affordable for budget-conscious passengers. Through this promo, they can now buy a reloadable Stored Value Card (SVC) or beep™ at half of the previous total cost of new beep™ card with load. This aligns with LRMC’s Tap2Ride campaign which aims to promote the use of contactless transactions in LRT-1 for safety and convenience,” LRMC Head of Corporate Communications and Customer Relations Jacqueline S. Gorospe said.
“Aside from safer and faster travel, passengers can enjoy a wide range of benefits when they use beep™ such as discounted LRT-1 fares which can mean savings for commuters. There are more ways now to reload their beep™ cards such as Ticket Vending Machines, beep™ loading machines, and LRT-1 merchant loading kiosks – all located in LRT-1 stations. They can also use beep™ as e-money to purchase food or services from select LRT-1 merchants,” Gorospe added.
Moreover, LRT-1 passengers will enjoy a free ride from 7:00am – 9:00am and 5:00pm – 7:00pm on 12 June 2022 as part of the yearly Independence Day promo. Existing beep™ card holders shall pass through the usual Automated Fare Collection System (AFCS) gates and tap their cards to avail of the free ride without charge. Passengers without beep™ may get single journey tickets for free from the LRT-1 teller booths.
LRT-1 will follow normal operating hours on Independence Day, with the first trips leaving both Baclaran and Balintawak stations at 4:30am, and the last trips at 9:15pm (LRT-1 Baclaran Station) and 9:30pm (LRT-1 Balintawak Station).
For more updates and info on the LRT-1, follow LRMC on Facebook at facebook.com/officialLRT1, Twitter at @officialLRT1, or download the ikotMNL mobile app for free on Google Play and App Store.
Now that travel is back to normal, bus commuters going to Northern and Central Luzon need not wait in long lines when buying tickets or paying for cargo deliveries as PayMaya enables Victory Liner with safe and convenient digital payments.
Through a tie-up with one of the country's largest transportation firms, Victory Liner, and the only end-to-end digital financial services platform PayMaya, commuters can now easily book and pay for their bus tickets at Victory Liner's website (https://www.victoryliner.com/) using their PayMaya account, any debit, credit, or prepaid card, or via other e-wallets.
Meanwhile, commuters buying their bus tickets at Victory Liner stations in Baguio, Caloocan, Cubao, Dagupan, Olongapo, Pasay, Sampaloc, Santiago, and Tuguegarao can safely scan to pay via PayMaya QR or any debit, credit, or prepaid card. PayMaya has enabled these Victory Liner stations with PayMaya One, the all-in-one Android device that allows businesses to accept QR and any card payment.
On top of these, PayMaya also equipped all 23 of Victory Liner's Drop and Go outlets with PayMaya One terminals so consumers can conveniently make PayMaya QR or any card payment for their delivery service needs.
Customers who wish to send packages can conveniently book the door-to-door pickup and delivery of items through the Drop and Go website, https://dropandgo.ph/. It offers terminal-to-terminal freight service within Central Luzon, Northern Luzon, and Mega Manila.
"Filipinos deserve a better commuting experience. One way to improve it is by making it easier for people to buy tickets and pay for package deliveries safely with digital payments technology. We're happy to work with Victory Liner to create better experiences for their customers and personnel," said Shailesh Baidwan, President of PayMaya.
For her part, Victory Liner President Marivic Hernandez-del Pilar said: "Our main goal is to provide a convenient and safe commuting experience, especially with travel and tourism activities picking up, especially this summer. One of the best ways is to provide easy and contactless cashless payment options in our channels."
Book online with PayMaya and enjoy rewards
To provide commuters with more rewarding experiences, PayMaya will give out cashback rewards when they pay online for their single or roundtrip tickets from April 1 to May 31, 2022
To earn a cashback reward, travelers simply need to pay using their PayMaya account at least P300 worth of Victory Liner single or roundtrip tickets at the nine Victory Liner stations equipped with PayMaya One or via the Victory Liner website.
Qualified customers can enjoy up to Php50 cashback per transaction and up to Php300 cashback during the whole promo period.
With a more convenient bus ride ticket booking and payment on Victory Liner's website and stations, commuters can enjoy a more rewarding and safer travel experience.
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Angkas, with its continued goal of providing safe, fast and affordable ride for our commuters, is welcoming back its partner-riders for the 2022 Angkas Safety Fiesta, to serve as refresher safety training for the company’s 23,000 biker fleet, and to reaffirm Angkas’ commitment to only the highest standards of motorcycle safety.
Angkas CEO George Royeca and the bikers preparing to serve the public again.
Angkas bikers and senatorial candidates from a wide range of political parties gathered in the Angkas Safety Fiesta to jointly push for the welfare and protection of the 18-million-strong biker community.
Last Sunday, April 3, the Cainta-based event, which was packed by 3,000 bikers, also signaled the trailblazing ride-hailing service provider’s preparation to provide alternative transport due to the imminent return of pre-pandemic traffic in Metro Manila following the lowering of COVID-19 restrictions.
Senatoriables, leaders, and the biker community support Angkas’ return to the streets in the recent Angkas Safety Fiesta.
Upper row, from L: former Ifugao governor Teddy Baguilat; Sen. Risa Hontiveros; free legal service counsel Chel Diokno; and Sen. Sonny Trillanes.
Middle row, from L: Actor Robin Padilla; former senator JV Ejercito; Atty. Greco Belgica, former head of the Presidential Anti-Corruption Commission; and former presidential spokesman Harry Roque.
Lowest row, from L: Health advocate Dr. Minguita Padilla; former PNP Chief Guillermo Eleazar; civic leader and women’s right advocate Samira Gutoc; and John Castriciones, former Secretary of Agrarian Reform.
“An estimated 99% of motorcycle owners are low-income breadwinners. Motorcycles are at the center of their road to economic freedom and financial independence,” explained Angkas CEO George Royeca. “It is for this reason that we have invited candidates from every party. The welfare and livelihoods of 18 million Filipinos---and the families they support---are issues that cut through party divisions and affect all of us. Whatever your political inclinations are, we hope that 18 million kagulongs are part of the national agenda,” he added.
An estimated 3,000 bikers came out in support.
Angkas pioneered the motorcycle taxi industry in 2016 and gave the beginnings of legitimacy and professional regulation to tens and thousands of habal-habal riders who were previously criminalized by the government. Many challenges still face motorcycle bikers on a daily basis from lack of bike-friendly infrastructure, livelihood benefits, and the proper system to protect them from being regarded and treated as second-class citizens on the road. “There are 18 million bikers in the country, three times the number of cars. Unfortunately, roads are not optimized for bikers,” pointed out Royeca.
Free legal service counsel and senatoriable Chel Diokno
Free legal service counsel and senatoriable Chel Diokno supported this, saying that “...the transport policy of the government should be about moving people, not cars. The government has prioritized building more highways for cars, while we should be focusing more on how to move people to get where they need to get, in the shortest possible time. … Motorcycles are really suited to that role. But of course, we need to develop our mass transit system as well.”
Former presidential spokesman and senatorial candidate Harry Roque pointed out that Angkas can help revitalize the economy similar to the way that its bike counterpart in Thailand has been key to its thriving tourism industry: “Napakadaming beses akong nakarating ng Bangkok … Dahil sa Bangkok ‘yung kanilang counterpart na Angkas ang dahilan kung bakit sumigla ang turismo at ekonomiya ng Thailand.” (I’ve visited Bangkok many times … In Bangkok, Angkas’ counterpart was the reason for the revitalization of Thailand’s economy and tourism.”)
Seeking a return to the Senate this year, JV Ejercito, a longtime supporter of Angkas and a biker himself, confirmed Angkas’ contributions to the economy, addressing them directly: “\...Kung wala kayo... malamang lalo nang bumagsak ang ating ekonomiya. Kayo ang bumuhay sa ekonomiya habang tayo ay ni-lockdown...at may-pandemiya.” (If you weren’t around … the economy could have further deteriorated. You are the ones who kept the economy alive especially during the lockdowns and the pandemic.”)
Among Angkas’ first hurdles to wide acceptance was the common perception that motorcycles are inherently unsafe. To overcome this, Angkas provided free training for over 150,000 applicant bikers, 70% of whom actually failed. As a result of its uncompromising standards, the company has maintained a safety rating of 99.997% even after millions of rides. This convinced the government to take a second look at the motorcycle-riding sector and consider legitimizing the motorcycle taxi industry.
The success of the Angkas business model complemented by its strict safety training protocol has led to tens of thousands of new biker entrepreneurs who make at least PHP 1,500-2,000 a day or PHP 45k-60k monthly which is up to three times the minimum wage. Best of all, because they are entrepreneurs, these bikers control their working hours and have time for other important things such as family time.
“Today, there are an estimated 18-million motorcycle owners, 99% of whom are low-income earners and breadwinners,” shared Royeca. “Should they be given legitimacy as a sector, they will certainly be a formidable economic force that will provide adequately for their families, as well as help revive the economy by providing incomparably energy and time-efficient mobility and logistics services,.”
Bikers’ roles remain as vital as the country moves past COVID-19 and on to the challenge of rebuilding. Hopeful returnee Senator Sonny Trillanes explained: “We will be more and more dependent on motorcycles for logistics. It’s very convenient, and people have discovered that convenience. You cannot put the paste back into the tube. It’s for the betterment of society because it's less costly.”
Former Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Guillermo Eleazar
Former Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Guillermo Eleazar acknowledged Angkas’ accomplishment: “...’Yung presence ninyo, naiba ang landscape ng transportation sa Metro Manila pati na sa buong Pilipinas.” (“Your presence changed the transportation landscape of Metro Manila, and the whole country’).
Seeking re-election, Senator Risa Hontiveros cited the need to constantly dialog with the motorcycle entrepreneur sector to learn their needs, and address these in the form of appropriate legislation: “Napakahalaga ng inyong boses para matukoy natiin ano ang mga pangangailangan at problema. At paano ito matutugunan ng mga maayos na batas.”
In the time of COVID-19, motorcycle entrepreneurs proved invaluable to the economy in general, and in the day-to-day lives of people in particular. Motorcycles have been the very engine that has been driving commerce even in the strictest lockdowns. Former Ifugao governor and senatorial candidate Teddy Baguilat of the Liberal Party pointed out: “They kept us afloat during the lockdowns.”
Angkas bikers in particular have stepped up and become heroes providing critical services to those who need them, supporting and partnering with different government agencies, and ensuring that our frontliners get fast and safe to the hospitals and back to their homes, often at great personal risk.
Senatorial candidate Dr. Minguita Padilla suggested potentially life-saving applications for motorcycle entrepreneurs: “Sa medical emergencies. nakikita niyo ang mga ambulansya na stuck sa traffic pero ang motorcycles pwedeng dumaan sa traffic. At sa ibang bansa ay ginagamit na sila, pang first-aid, pang mga emergency med vehicles.” (In medical emergencies we often see ambulances stuck in traffic, but motorbikes can easily get through traffic. In other countries, motorcycles are already used as emergency medical vehicles.)
Baguilat noted from conversations with tricycle drivers that spare part shortages for their motorbikes have become a problem: “We have to look into how we can manufacture locally made spare parts kung kakayanin (if possible).”
Senatoriable and actor Robin Padilla
Senatoriable and actor Robin Padilla who is running for Uniteam and who is also an avid biker, pointed out that fuel prices are bikers’ biggest problem. He vowed to do something about it: “Mga ‘tol, isa lang ang ipapangako ko sa inyo. ‘Pag ako pinagkatiwalaan ninyo na mailuklok niyo na maging senador niyo at maging boses niyo, isa lang ‘tol. Gagawa tayo ng pambansang gasolinahan. Ibig sabihin hindi na dapat ‘yan i-tax ng gobyerno.” (Brothers, I have only one promise to you. If you trust me and elect me as your Senator, and allow me to act as your voice, we will establish a nationalized fuel company. This means fuel will not be taxed by the government.)
“While our primary concern today is the welfare of 18 million motorcycle riders, we are by no means suggesting that they be given a handout,” emphasized Royeca. “For many logistical and mobility-related tasks, there is absolutely no substitute for motorcycles. They have always been and have become even more vital to commerce in the country. Yet to this day, bikers are second-class citizens, both on the road and legally. Their livelihoods don’t enjoy protection from the law despite their significant economic contribution.”
“To the 18 million people that are depending on two wheels for their livelihoods, we want you to have the proper representation and good champions who will really look at what you’re doing, how you can thrive, how you can be better, and also fight for your rights,” said Royeca, addressing the motorcycle-riding public. “At the end of the day yun lang po (that’s all we want), sana po hindi na po sila (that they no longer be) second-class citizens. Sana po hindi na po sila tignan bilang mga criminal (it would be good if they were no longer regarded as criminals). This is something that we will always be fighting for until we are able to establish that,” he concluded.
Other noteworthy candidates who addressed the crowd were Senator Win Gatchalian represented by Jerry Esplana; Congresswoman Cristal Bagatsing of Manila City’s 5th District; Senatorial hopefuls John Castriciones, Samira Gutoc, Alex Lacson represented by wife Pia Lacson, Greco Belgica, Ariel Lim; and the Abante Pilipinas Party List. Senatorial Jopet Sison was also in attendance. Senatoriables Alan Peter Cayetano and Joel Villanueva sent messages of support.
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