MANILA, Philippines – In a bid to uplift its biker community and boost local entrepreneurship, Angkas introduced the Angkasosyo Hub in July 2023.
The brainchild of chapter president Allen Llevan, this initiative is aimed at enriching the Angkas ecosystem by supporting rider-owned businesses.
Inspired by Llevan’s decade-long success running a sari-sari store in Pasay City, the Angkasosyo Hub empowers riders to have ‘tambayans’ or resting spots for fellow Angkas bikers.
In exchange, bikers enjoy perks like free snacks, coffee, and a monthly P10 discount on bills, which Angkas remits back to the business owner.
George Royeca, Angkas CEO, champions this initiative as a step towards dual-income households, promoting entrepreneurship beyond traditional roles.
“Our goal is to empower every biker with an entrepreneurial mindset,” Royeca emphasized.
Marvin Rapada, an Angkas rider and owner of a kitchenette in Quezon City, experienced a surge in his business’s popularity as an Angkasosyo Hub.
His visibility and trust in the community have grown, with fellow riders even buying shower caps from him.
Rapada’s advice to budding entrepreneurs? “Be patient, strategize, and maintain a positive, customer-friendly attitude.”
“Kilalang-kilala na kami sa aming baranggay dahil kilala nila yung Angkas. Mas may tiwala sila. Dinarayo kami hindi lang nung mga taga-dito, pati na rin nung ibang Angkas riders na sinasabihan ng kanilang El Presidente. Nakakatuwa kasi ramdam mo yung suporta ng komunidad sa negosyo mo,” Rapada shared.
Similarly, Yrreg Guerrero, owner of a burger station in Quezon City, values the sense of community the Hub fosters.
Since joining Angkas in 2018, Guerrero has formed bonds with various biker groups, turning his establishment into a popular hangout spot.
He encourages fellow bikers to consider the Angkasosyo Hub as a means to not only enhance their businesses but also to strengthen community ties.
“Madalas yung mga grupo ng Angkas biker tumatambay dito, nagpapahinga. Nagkakaroon ng bonding. Kahit yung mga hindi magkakakilala na grupo, nagiging magkakaibigan,” Guerrero shared.
With the Angkasosyo Hub, Angkas is not just providing a job but a pathway towards financial stability and dignity.
“We’re equipping our drivers with the tools to thrive in today’s economy, fostering a holistic community approach that benefits everyone involved,” Royeca said.