PNP-HPG still waiting for LTFRB's official request on apprehending Angkas drivers

The Philippine National Police - Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG) on Thursday said it would not apprehend drivers and operators of motorcycle ride-sharing service Angkas pending official request from the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).

"Wala pa naman official request [ang] LTFRB. We first need to coordinate with LTFRB on what grounds, fines and other penalties as LTFRB is the lead agency in franchise of Angkas," PNP-HPG director Chief Superintendent Roberto Fajardo said in a statement tweeted by Super Radyo dzBB's Jonathan Andal.

PNP-HPG, hindi muna manghuhuli ng Angkas drivers @dzbb pic.twitter.com/RR6riIqmF2

— Jonathan Andal (@JonathanAndal_) December 12, 2018

On Wednesday, the LTFRB issued an order directing law enforcement units to apprehend Angkas drivers and operators and impound their vehicles.

This came after the Supreme Court issued a temporary restraining order (TRO) against the implementation of a directive by the Mandaluyong Regional Trial Court (RTC) allowing Angkas to resume operations pending a final decision from industry regulators.

In a statement, Angkas said the TRO will affect the livelihood of 25,000 biker-partners.

"This comes at a time when hundreds of thousands of commuters need the Angkas service to beat the worsening holiday traffic," said Angkas head of operations David Medrana.  —Anna Felicia Bajo/KBK, GMA News