By authority of the Sangguniang Panlungsod, Mayor John Dalipe has signed on behalf of the city government of Zamboanga a memorandum of agreement with Mytaxi.PH Inc., referred to as GrabPH, in a bid to enhance the efficiency, effectiveness and responsiveness of public services while leveraging technological innovations for government service.

The MOA signing ceremony was held Tuesday morning, June 4, at City Hall Conference Room in the presence of Councilors VP Elago, Vino Guingona, Frederick Atilano and representatives of the different transport groups, as witnesses.

In his message, Dalipe said the ceremonial MOA signing marked a crucial moment is the trajectory of transportation services in Zamboanga City, and it is a journey toward enhanced mobility, convenience, safety and security of the riding public.

“Under the Dalipe administration, we have undertaken steps to expedite the development of transportation infrastructure to explore innovative technology that will revolutionize the way our people move and connect within our city,” the mayor said.

Furthermore, he said the MOA signifies his administration’s decision to adopt GrabPH transport network vehicle services for public utility tricycles and, in the future, taxis and private vehicles.

Dalipe was confident that the city’s strategic partnership with GrabPH will not only modernize the transport system but more importantly will minimize if not totally eradicate overcharging and other malpractices by erring tricycle drivers in the city.

For her part, GrabPH Operations Head CJ Lacsican expressed delight in signing the MOA with the city government under the leadership of Mayor Dalipe, saying her platform company bridges the gap between the transport services and the commuters who are looking for convenience, safety and security while on travel.

“We will give access to people who want convenience,” she said, adding that the platform will give livelihood to its members. “Kung dumami tayo, mas marami ang mabigyan ng livelihood opportunity.”

Also present were City Administrator Atty. Wendell Sotto, Assistant City Human Resource Management Officer Jericho Bustamante, Assistant City Administrator Dolph Saavedra, Assistant City Planning and Development Officer Jessie Christopher Lapinid, City Business Permit and Licensing Officer Benjie Barredo, Chief Executive Assistant William Mariga, and GrabPH Manager Bryan Ento, among many others.—(Vic Larato)