..:: AUTO REPORT AFRICA ::..
Related Articles
Toyota Mobility Foundation (TMF), an independent not-for-profit foundation aimed at enabling mobility for all, Monday, announced the provision of up to 10 connected and sanitised shuttles to Philippine General Hospital.
These free-of-charge shuttles, which are to appreciate and show respect for the dedication of the healthworkers who are in the frontline of the COVID-19 fight, will help medical and other staff at the hospital commute safely and efficiently, giving them peace of mind.
The “Just-in-Time” app designed by Singapore-based SWAT Mobility will allow commuters to book seats and generate effective and efficient commuting routes based on passengers’ pick-up location and time.
In addition, the shuttles will be equipped with products and services for sanitization, such as air purification devices, seat covers that will be periodically replaced, and frequent cleansing services. The number of passengers allowed in a vehicle will also be limited in line with social distancing rules.
The service is expected to last for three months, with operational support from Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation and Toyota Daihatsu Engineering & Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
Similar services had already been launched in Bangkok, Thailand to support the commute of healthcare staff at Rajavithi Hospital. The service started in mid-April with fixed routes and is in the process of being supplemented with a Just-in-Time app for on-demand operations to begin in mid-May.
Representing TMF, Mr. Pras Ganesh, Programme Director for Asia Region, explained what informed the decision for the expansion of the provision to the Phillipines.
“We are deeply honored to expand TMF’s connected and sanitized services to the Philippines with the aim of providing medical front-liners with safe, free and convenient commuting options during this difficult time. We are also looking to implement this service in other Southeast Asian countries,” he said.
The shuttles are coming as COVID-19 outbreaks have not only caused unprecedented and prolonged challenges to social and daily activities, but more significantly, posed serious threats to human lives. Each segment of society, such as local governments, businesses and individuals, are playing their role in the fight against the virus.
Among those, healthcare workers are tirelessly working day and night to save lives, putting themselves at risk. The shuttles are to appreciate their efforts and make their work easier as the heroes in the frontline of the fight against COVID-19.
