By Marjaleen Ramos
Motorcycle-hailing firms Angkas and Joyride announced Saturday they will temporarily suspend their passenger services in Metro Manila services starting March 15 following the government's implementation of a strict community quarantine in the region.
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) had earlier ordered the suspension of the pilot implementation of motorcycle taxis to prevent the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
The two firms, however, said they will continue their delivery services.
“Angkas Padala will continue its delivery service to serve those who are unable to travel or leave their homes, or for emergency services," Angkas said in a statement.
JoyRide, in a separate statement, will also make its delivery services available to "assist the government and the public in delivering essential goods in whatever manner or form during this time of public health emergency.”
Angkas added it will resume its passenger services, once Metro Manila is confirmed to be safe.
Metro Manila was placed under a month-long community quarantine on Sunday in an attempt to stop the spread of the COVID-19.
As of Sunday, the total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the country has risen to 111.