Ilocos norte: The new JoyRide taxicle service in Ilocos Norte province is expected to improve commuter mobility in this northern gateway to Luzon, as it is set to operate next month, just after Holy Week. Ilocos Norte Governor Cecilia Araneta-Marcos confirmed this on Monday following the formal signing of a memorandum of agreement between the provincial government and JoyRide PH Corporation to offer taxicle service in the area. A taxicle is a standard tricycle that uses the JoyRide app, functioning as an on-demand taxi. Supporting the initiative are the Land Transportation Franchising Regulatory Board, the Land Transportation Office, and the Metro Ilocos Norte Council.

According to Philippines News Agency, 'Through this partnership, we hope to provide safe, convenient, and reliable transportation for every Ilocano and every tourist visiting the province,' Araneta-Marcos said, expressing gratitude to partner agencies for making this pilot program a reality in the province. Menard Umali, Vice President of Business and Development for Mobility at JoyRide PH Corporation, stated that the taxicle is being introduced in Ilocos Norte for the first time to create an additional income stream for partner trike drivers and operators.

'We commit to a system where fares are transparent, reliable, and safe-providing a seamless experience from the first to the last mile,' Umali said, encouraging transport groups to leverage technology to their advantage. With few taxi operators in the province, the JoyRide taxicle aims to serve untapped markets, including residents in subdivisions and remote areas, as well as tourists who often struggle to find reliable transportation when visiting popular destinations.

Through the app-based taxi services, it can standardize fares, prevent overcharging, and promote sustainable tourism that supports community livelihoods.