MOVE IT to be axed from MC taxi pilot? But why, though?
Gilbert Chao · Nov 11, 2023 11:30 AM
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In a display of solidarity, 2,000 rider-partners from app-based moto taxi service provider MOVE IT gathered at the Liwasang Bonifacio in Manila, with leaders stepping forward to voice their collective concerns regarding the call to halt the operations of MOVE IT.
This is after the House Committee on Metro Manila Development recently proposed the exclusion of MOVE IT from the pilot study on MC taxi services, citing concerns regarding its connections with Grab Philippines. Grab is a leading Transport Network Vehicle Service (TNVS) provider which acquired MOVE IT in 2022.
“Absent a resolution and pending Grab and Move It’s compliance with requests for information that are crucial in the determination of whether Grab is, in fact, a de facto fourth player in the pilot study, the (group) may consider prohibiting Move It from the pilot study, if warranted,” Metro Manila Development committee chairman Rep. Rolando Valeriano said in his report.
When it started in 2019, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) allowed only three operators – Angkas, Joyride, and Move It – in its pilot study program on moto taxis and granted them provisional authority to operate.
The report further stated that the Technical Work Group (TWG) of the DOTr should “study and consider all allegations and issues pertaining to Grab, which now owns Move It, including those raised during the hearing, such as overcharging and shortchanging.”
Grab Philippines and MOVE IT attest that they have clear track records of adherence to regulations, evidenced by approvals from both the Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) and the DOTr. MOVE IT also questions some politicians’ motives in pushing for its expulsion from the pilot run.
This potential exclusion of MOVE IT from the Moto Taxi pilot would not only stifle competition but also reduce the number of ride providers that are in high demand, especially during the “ber” months. It would also be a big blow to the 6,500 MOVE IT riders, who would lose their source of income.
Should the government halt operations of MOVE IT, how would it affect you?
A moto-journo who spends most of his time on the saddle unless otherwise saddled with desk work. His curious nature and poor sense of direction often take him on unplanned adventures.
