MANILA, Philippines - There is no stopping Radyo5 Taxi Squad from continuing and further strengthening its unique role as the country’s pioneer and game-changer for vigilant citizen journalism “on wheels.” Positioned as Kapatid Network’s “extra eyes and ears” of news while they navigate the streets, the Taxi Squad has already been proven to be a useful source of breaking news for TV, radio and online.
With the continued growth of its membership base, not to mention the positive feedback from valued sponsors and listeners, Radyo5 recently integrated a regular Taxi Squad news segment which zeroes in on traffic, flooding and road accidents happening in major and secondary roads.
The Taxi Squad news segment is integrated in Radyo5’s drive-time programs, such as Orly Mercado All Ready and Punto Asintado for the morning rush hour; Cristy Ferminute and Remoto Control for the after-office rush. What makes their take unique is the offering of reliable alternative routes and motoring tips that benefit motorists and commuters. After all, who else knows the nooks and crannies of Metro roads than the cab drivers?
The Radyo5 Taxi Squad is also in full swing at the regional level where a recruitment activity was recently held in Park Mall Mandaue City. Notwithstanding the lashing of Typhoon Mario which caused floods and suspended classes, more than 160 taxi drivers were installed as the “eyes” and “ears” of Radyo5 101.9 News FM in Cebu. Highlighting the network’s commitment to bring journalism beyond news, the members were first given a coaching session on how to identify and report news-worthy incidents. This was followed by an oath-taking session where the Taxi Squad’s Code of Conduct was reinforced. It includes being honest, service-oriented, vigilant, intelligent, law-abiding motorists who do not disrespect, refuse nor overcharge passengers.
The participants were touched with the special treats prepared for them by Radyo5 Cebu — actually, a first for most of them. It included free medical check-up, haircut and massage, lunch and snacks, and loads of freebies from valued sponsors. Entertainment from local shows such as The Gud, the Bad and the Agley, Guardian Blade and BTS also had them in stitches.
“Ako ay lubusang nagpapasalamat sa Radyo5 at kami ay binibigyan ng pagpapahalaga. Bukod sa kanilang pagpapa-alala sa katapatan na hinihingi ng aming trabaho, kami din ay kinikilala na mahalagang partner sa pagbabalita. Sabi nga nila — kami ang ‘mata’ at ‘tenga,’” shared by taxi driver Edwin Ruiz in Cebuano. The new members contribute tips and advisories in their regular news segment that began last month.
Since it was first launched in 2011, the Taxi Squad, widely known to be the country’s biggest and fastest-growing community of volunteer taxi drivers who serve as citizen journalists as they navigate the streets, has currently amassed 1,100 members.
Radyo5 Taxi Squad is supported by Talk ’N Text, year round.
For details, call 0939-1661443.