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MANILA -- Motorcycle-hailing app Angkas said Friday it was allowed to resume operations under a 6-month test run of draft regulations for motorcycle taxis.

The pilot, approved by the Department of Transportation, will test the safety and economic viability of motorcycle taxis and will be done in Metro Manila and Cebu, said Angkas head of regulatory and public affairs George Royeca.

"We have a very, very unique opportunity here because we have have something that's already running. Before we do national policy or permanent law, we're able to fine tune what is the best way best practices bet regulations," Royeca told ANC's Market Edge.

Royeca thanked Transportation Sec. Arthur Tugade for working with Angkas on the draft rules.

The homegrown platform announced its return at the start of the morning rush hour Friday on Twitter with the repeating verse from US rapper Eminem's "Without Me." Angkas is known for its quirky posts on Twitter and Facebook.

Before the 6-month test, Angkas suspended motor taxi operations and operated as a courier service. It's plight illustrates how app-based transport services deal with Philippine laws.

Ride-hailing platform Grab is currently working with transport regulators and the country's antitrust watchdog to address commuters' concerns.

Grab is “optimistic” about the development, said its spokesperson, Nicka Hosaka. The company previously launched GrabBike service, which was discontinued due to “regulatory challenges.”

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guess who's back?
guess who's back?
guess who's back?
guess who's back?
guess who's back?
guess who's back?
guess who's back?

— Angkas (@angkas) May 9, 2019