The Unified Transport Operations League (UTOL) Corp., a homegrown ride-hailing app owned by Filipinos, was recently approved by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) as a Transport Network Company (TNC) last March 5, 2024. UTOL is poised to revolutionize the way Filipinos commute.

Its brand name was derived from the Filipino slang word "utol," meaning brother or sister, as the brand embodies the spirit of kinship and connectivity. It is rooted in the concept of providing seamless transportation solutions while fostering a sense of community among its users. 

UTOL’s journey began with a vision to address the specific commuting challenges faced by Filipinos. Recognizing the importance of quality, affordability, and reliability in transportation services, its owners invested in developing a platform that caters to the unique needs of Filipino commuters and drivers alike. In an interview with Manila Bulletin, Rolando Maningas, Chairman and CEO of UTOL, emphasized the company’s aim to address passenger pain points. 

"Naka focus kami ngayon sa pag poprovide ng service sa mga passenger, ‘yung may masasakyan sila na komportable at professionalized drivers, (We are focusing more on providing services to the passengers. We want to provide a comfortable and professionalized drivers.)," said Maningas.

The company ensures as well that the passengers will have a smoother and more accessible e-hailing app experience, hence investing more on developing a user-friendly app interface with easier-to-understand languages, including mixed Tagalog-English. Its app was skillfully developed with the Filipino consumer in mind. In terms of affordability, UTOL promises lowest ride fees as proven in their daily test runs. 

Moreover, to ensure a quality experience, UTOL recognizes every rider’s challenges and makes sure that they provide solutions to them. The company understands the distinction between TNVS and TNC, that it's not just about connecting drivers and passengers but also about bridging the gap between regulations and operations to ensure a seamless and compliant experience. Recognizing the pivotal role drivers play in the success of any ride-hailing service, UTOL is dedicated to providing comprehensive support.

"Isa sa struggle ng mga operators ay yung maintenance and assistance sa kanilang vehicle, ‘yun yung gusto din solusyonan ng UTOL. Pangalawa, minsan nagkaroon sila ng problema pagna-involve sila sa vehicular accident. We reach out to insurance companies na hindi magiging pabigat kay driver/operator, na pwede staggered ang payment and pwede on the spot claims para mapabilis. Gusto ni UTOL na mapabilis ang kanilang claims. Meron ding ipo-provide si UTOL na training or drivers’ academy. (One of operators’ struggles is the maintenance and assistance for their vehicle, we want to give a solution to that. Second, sometimes when they get involved in vehicular accidents, it’s a problem for them. So we reach out to insurance companies that can help them get their claims easily and have flexible payment options. We will also provide drivers’ training, or what we call UTOL Drivers’ Academy)," Maningas explained.

Aside from these, UTOL will also provide lay-away plan vehicles for deserving drivers to become as a driver/operator. By understanding the needs of Filipino riders, UTOL ensures that its drivers are well-equipped in their livelihood to provide safe and reliable transportation services.

Showcasing Filipino talent and communities

UTOL is committed to supporting young Filipino talent in various aspects of its operations, including drivers, IT developers and employees. The company recognizes the wealth of expertise and innovation within the local community, and hence prioritizes the Filipinos in its workforce. It is also led by competent, accomplished, and highly experienced individuals that makes it a true 100% Filipino-owned and operated transport network company.

"It's high time na alisin na natin ang colonial mentality na pag galling sa ibang bansa, mas magaling. FIlipino talents are at par with the foreign developers, kaya ng mga Pilipino 'yan. (It’s high time that we end the colonial mentality that if someone or something is from a foreign country, it’s better. FIlipino talents are at par with the foreign developers, they are also capable.) " Atty. Orlando Ocampo, head of the legal department at UTOL, said, during an interview with Manila Bulletin.

"Si UTOL ay mayroong in-house IT developers, who most of them are top of the class. (The company has in-house IT developers and most of them are top of the class)," Maningas added. 

UTOL towards the future

As UTOL gears up for its soft opening this April 30, 2024 and official launch on May 8, 2024, their aspirations are high. With a focus on providing premium rides, supporting tourism, and expanding beyond borders to showcase Filipino talent, UTOL is set to make a mark in the transportation industry and eventually contribute more to the economic growth of the country.

With the leadership of its Board of Directors including Rolando Maningas, Rosalie Maningas, Sariel Pedraza, and Atty. Orlando Ocampo, UTOL is set to become a symbol of Filipino resilience, innovation, and unity. It stands out as a beaming illustration of what can be achieved when local knowledge meets entrepreneurial spirit. 

Content partnership with UTOL