Riders party-list climbs in OCTA poll

In the latest Tugon ng Masa survey by OCTA Research conducted from April 20 to 24, the newly established party-list garnered 2.51 percent of the vote, placing it 13th overall among party-lists.

This was a significant jump for Angkasangga after the previous survey last April 10 to 16 showed it garnered 1.98 percent of the vote and only enough to win just one seat.

Its first nominee and Angkas founder George Royeca welcomed the development.

"We are overwhelmed and deeply grateful for the growing support of our fellow Filipinos," he said.

"This is a clear sign that our advocacy among workers and motorcycle riders is getting stronger. Once we reach Congress, we will serve as their voice and to champion their rights," Royeca added.

The Angkasangga party-list seeks to integrate motorcycles into the national transport plans of the government, noting that thousands of informal workers, tricycle drivers, vendors and freelancers depend on this transportation method for their livelihoods. It also advocates key labor reforms that include paid sick leave and government-mandated benefits for informal workers and accident insurance for Tricycle Operators and Drivers Association members.

Royeca reiterated the party-list's commitment in championing the rights and welfare of informal workers while in Congress, as well as addressing issues like job creation, protection of workers and issues regarding public transportation.

The April 20 to 24 Tugon ng Masa party-list survey showed Tingog (5.68 percent voter preference) and Ako Bicol (4.56 percent) occupy the top 2, which would guarantee them three seats at the House of Representatives, while Agimat (4.20 percent), ACT-CIS (3.74 percent) and Duterte Youth (3.50 percent) round up the top five, and are assured two House seats.