An All Filipino Ride-Sharing Company UTOL Aims To Make Its Mark
Ride-sharing has gained immense popularity as a transportation option among urban residents. Since its inception in 2015, the app-based ride-hailing service has experienced significant growth in the country, expanding its range of services to encompass deliveries, transportation, and even the addition of motorcycles to its fleet.
The most recent addition to this expanding market is Unified Transport Operations League (UTOL), a transport network company that is fully owned and operated by Filipinos. UTOL’s primary goal is to create a harmonious balance in meeting the needs of both passengers and transport network vehicle service (TNVS) owners and operators.
This starts by addressing the unmet needs of the driver-operators. “We will focus on supporting our vehicle drivers. This is one of the aspects of the industry that aren’t being focused upon by other transport network companies. For example, if our drivers need immediate access to UTOL due to emergencies for any reason, we have a team ready to respond to their request,” UTOL chairman of the board Roland Maningas shared.
Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board; Ms. Rosalie
Del Rosario Maningas, UTOL, General Manager and Atty. Orly
Ocampo, UTOL, Head, Legal Department.
UTOL has partnered with various companies in vehicle maintenance, cleaning services, and insurance to offer comprehensive insurance at a reduced cost to both riders and partner drivers. Additionally, discussions are underway with automotive dealers to establish partnerships and become accredited vehicle suppliers for UTOL drivers. This collaboration will also involve providing financing options for vehicles used within the UTOL network.
UTOL aims to elevate the performance of its partner-driver operators through the implementation of various activities. By instilling professionalism in the conduct of vehicle drivers and maintaining high-quality service standards, the company seeks to distinguish itself in the industry. This way, customers can have confidence in booking with UTOL, knowing they will receive a reliable and secure transportation service at a reasonable cost.
Version 1: UTOL aspires to enhance the performance of its partner-driver operators by introducing a range of activities. Through promoting professionalism among vehicle drivers and ensuring adherence to quality standards, the company aims to set itself apart from competitors. This approach enables customers to make bookings with UTOL with the assurance of a smooth and safe transportation experience at a competitive price.
The company, UTOL plans to expand to other cities in the future, but the management team decided to focus first in Metro Manila for its operations. “We first want to perfect our operations in Metro Manila but it is our plan to expand to other cities and provinces. If there is a demand for ride-hailing in that particular city, then we will look into developing our presence there,” Maningas shared.
To ensure the safety of its passengers, UTOL app has a “special feature” that puts a premium for the well-being of its passengers as well as the driver. In case a passenger feels unsafe inside the car, he/she can just press the help button on the app and an UTOL representative will immediately call the passenger or the driver to address their concerns. In the same way when a driver feels something is not right with his passenger/s all he had to do is press this emergency button, and the management will be there to the rescue.
It is in this market backdrop that UTOL aims to make a difference. The company aims to be a major player in the TNC market by providing high-quality service at rates that won’t break the customer’s budget.
