ILOILO CITY — Ride-hailing and food delivery platform Maxim is setting its sights on Iloilo City for a new motorcycle taxi (MC Taxi) service, following a June 4, 2026 meeting between Maxim Philippines President Andres Morales Jr. and Mayor Raisa Treñas. The proposal aims to provide Ilonggos with a faster, more affordable transport alternative.
A Proposal for Two-Wheeled Transit
Morales outlined Maxim’s plan to introduce a regulated motorcycle taxi operation that would help commuters navigate the city’s increasingly congested streets. The service would offer a low-cost option for short trips, complementing existing public transport. Maxim committed to working with the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board to ensure full compliance.
The meeting also included Maxim’s Iloilo head Tristam Castellano and Government Relations Manager Taj Angeles. Mayor Treñas welcomed the proposal, noting that diverse, accessible mobility solutions are essential for a growing metropolitan hub. She stressed that any new service must prioritize commuter safety and respect local transport stakeholders.
Strengthening Local Partnerships
Beyond the MC Taxi pitch, Mayor Treñas thanked Maxim for its earlier support of the city’s road signage project. The company funded and deployed directional signs that improve traffic awareness, demonstrating a willingness to invest in the community beyond profit. This track record lends credibility to their transport expansion plans.
The collaboration extends to driver welfare programs. In a prior meeting with Iloilo Representative Julienne Baronda, Maxim discussed initiatives to shield partner‑drivers from fluctuating fuel costs. These include permanent vehicle branding incentives and community‑based marketing activities that directly boost driver earnings, ensuring that economic benefits flow to local residents.
From Cebu to Iloilo: Maxim’s Expansion
Since launching in Cebu in 2020, Maxim has grown to operate in over 18 cities across the Philippines. The platform’s move into Iloilo mirrors a successful MC Taxi rollout in Batangas City, where it introduced the first legally licensed motorcycle ride‑hailing service. Iloilo City represents the next logical step in its national expansion.
The company’s model combines ride‑hailing with food and grocery delivery, creating multiple income streams for partner‑drivers. This dual approach helps sustain driver livelihoods even during off‑peak transport hours. For Iloilo, the arrival of such a platform could invigorate the local gig economy and offer new opportunities for micro‑entrepreneurs.
Supporting Drivers and Commuters
The proposed MC Taxi service directly addresses the pain points of urban mobility. Motorcycles can weave through traffic, drastically reducing travel time. For budget‑conscious Ilonggos, lower fares make daily commutes more manageable, freeing up disposable income for other needs.
Maxim’s diverse rider pool, which includes English‑speaking riders and foreign nationals, also appeals to tourists and business travelers unfamiliar with local routes. This inclusivity strengthens Iloilo’s image as a welcoming, globally connected city. A reliable, app‑based MC Taxi fleet can serve as an ambassador for the city’s hospitality.
A Vision for a Connected and Progressive Iloilo
Mayor Treñas reiterated her administration’s openness to partners who share the vision of a more connected Iloilo. The Maxim engagement is part of a broader push to modernize public services through private sector collaboration. As the city continues to grow, innovative transport solutions are seen as critical to sustaining economic momentum.
The MC Taxi proposal now moves to the regulatory review phase, with both parties optimistic about a swift approval process. If green‑lighted, Iloilo City will join a growing list of Philippine cities embracing motorcycle ride‑hailing as a legitimate and regulated mode of transport. The partnership signals that Iloilo is ready for the next level of urban mobility.
