Angkas rolling out revamped app next year

Angkas, a motorcycle ride-hailing service provider, is targeting to launch significant updates on its mobile application by next year after it enlisted an Austrian technology expert to resolve technical issues that both partner riders and commuters have been complaining about.

Angkas chief George Royeca introduced Josef Puchinger, a tech expert entrusted with enhancing the app's glitchy performance and outdated user interface, during the recent Angkas General assembly attended by more than 200 Angkas Chapter Presidents.

Royeca acknowledged the Angkas app's current limitations in scalability but assured that efforts to optimize operations for both riders and passengers are underway and are expected to be rolled out next year.

"This upcoming app signifies our evolution as a Filipino company. We've grown significantly, and we aim to achieve world-class status—a challenging endeavor. Think of the new app as the 'Angkas Ferrari' — a superior and refined experience," Royeca said.

Puchinger has two decades of experience building scalable systems around the world. He has made significant contributions to internet banking and a leading sports betting platform, demonstrating his expertise in a variety of tech domains.

His prior work in the logistics sector, developing delivery apps similar to Angkas, makes him an ideal candidate for this critical role.

"When you face challenges with bookings, rest assured, the Angkas Tech Team is fully engaged. I've personally relied on Angkas daily since arriving in Manila, and I deeply appreciate this exceptional service," Puchinger said.

Angkas, MOVE IT, and JoyRide are the three entities legally allowed by government regulators to run as bike taxi service providers under a pilot study aimed at providing affordable, safe, and reliable transportation to thousands of daily commuters.

Last week, the House Transportation Committee signified its support to extend the motorcycle taxi pilot study outside Metro Manila.

Committee Chair and Antipolo 2nd District Representative Romeo Acop said the program could be extended to the provinces of Cavite, Rizal, Laguna, Batangas, Iloilo, Bacolod, Pampanga, Davao, Zamboanga, Legazpi, General Santos, Pangasinan, and Baguio.

Currently, the motorcycle taxi pilot study is confined to three cities: Metro Manila, Cebu, and Cagayan de Oro.