Manila: The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) is pushing for reforms in the private express and/or messengerial delivery service (PEMEDES) sector to provide support and protection to delivery riders. The reforms are in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to enhance digitalization, improve public service, and provide more opportunities to Filipinos.

According to Philippines News Agency, DICT Secretary Henry Aguda announced that some reforms in the pipeline include a one-time fuel subsidy, provision of PhilHealth benefits, and access to Pag-IBIG loans. These benefits will only be available to those registered with the DICT. Aguda emphasized that registration will allow the DICT to track the performance of delivery providers and ensure satisfactory service, while also providing benefits to the riders.

In preparation for an expected influx of registrants, Aguda mentioned that a new fully-automated website for PEMEDES registration will be launched next month. This platform will publish service metrics such as delivery time and loss rate to guide consumers in choosing reliable companies.

The reform also aims to address common customer complaints, including wrong item deliveries, frequent delivery changes, and the inability to cancel deliveries. Aguda assured that the new PEMEDES system will resolve these issues. Under Republic Act No. 10844, or the DICT Act of 2015, the agency holds regulatory authority over PEMEDES operations.