Local Literature

According to Clarissa M. Que in her study entitled RIDE SAFE? SOCIAL PROTECTION AND
AGENCY IN THE PANDEMIC EXPERIENCE OF ANGKAS DRIVERS IN METRO MANILA, ‘The study
examined the relevance of informal sector risks identified by the International Labour
Organization – health, economic, as well as policy based and institutional risks – in the context
of Angkas drivers in Metro Manila before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Applying
Grounded Theory to substantiate the World Bank’s Social Risk Management Framework, the
research shows that these risks are experienced by the drivers and were exacerbated during the
pandemic. In line with this, the study also found other emerging risks such as exposure to
crimes, as well as gender discrimination and sexual harassment among female drivers. The
analysis shows each stakeholder’s comparative advantage as well as the strengths and
weaknesses in the policies/programs/efforts initiated. The government’s pilot study guidelines
enhanced safety and social protection for the drivers and passengers. Angkas initiated multiple
efforts in responding to the drivers’ risks; however, the company’s vulnerability from the
motorcycle taxi industry’s pending legalization dictates the extent to which they could do so.
Lastly, the drivers, together with their social support networks, found varied ways to cope with
the challenges of their working arrangement during the pandemic. From these, the study’s
recommendations were drawn: (a) Angkas drivers could focus on risk mitigation strategies so
that coping with risks is eased without financially exhausting them to prevent risks, (b) Angkas
could incorporate programs/features in their current operations (e.g., driver application process,
online platform) that addresses the drivers’ risks without requiring high costs while the company
supports the drivers and complies with the motorcycle taxi pilot study requirements, and (c) the
government could assess its current provisions and services (e.g., health- and education-related)
while creating more spaces to empower Angkas drivers given their working arrangement. These
adjustments from different stakeholders can further empower the drivers in facing risks.’ 1 The
author also tackles the Angkas and drivers are susceptible to a variety of dangers, including
common health issues in the relative instability of livelihoods brought about by the absence of
motorcycle taxi legalization in the Philippines, the lack of social security in the gig economy, and
the transportation industry. As the COVID-19 epidemic spreads, hazards increase, and the
importance of social protection is highlighted. The study employs a rights-based approach to
social protection while leveraging the World Bank's Social Risk Management Framework to
convey the story of the hazards faced by Angkas and drivers.

1
QUE, C. M. (2022). RIDE SAFE? SOCIAL PROTECTION AND AGENCY IN THE PANDEMIC
EXPERIENCE OF ANGKAS DRIVERS IN METRO MANILA (Doctoral dissertation, Ateneo de Manila
University).