There is definitely 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 the 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 very positive feedback from valued sponsors and listeners, Radyo5 recently integrated a regular Taxi Squad news segment which zeros-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 their offering of reliable alternative routes and motoring tips that ultimately benefit motorists and commuters. After all, who else knows the nooks and crannies of Metro roads than the cab drivers?

The Radyo5 Taxi Squad also goes 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 class suspension, 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 cause journalism beyond news, the members were first given a coaching session on how to identify and report news-worthy incidents. This was then followed by an oath-taking session where the Taxi Squad’s Code of Conduct was reinforced. This 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. This 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 left 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. Leaving in high spirits, the new members look forward to contributing tips and advisories in their regular news segment beginning October 2014.

And finally, Radyo5 Taxi Squad is also all geared up in Davao, where a Caravan is set to be held this October 22 – 23 in the garages of the biggest cab companies in Davao. Interested participants, both newly-recruited and renewing members, will undergo a seminar about road rules and proper by the LTO, as well as an orientation about Philhealth and an exclusive news reporting seminar led by News5’s Davao reporter Paolo Anota.

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 to a growing 1,100-strong members.

Radyo5 Taxi Squad is supported by Talk N’Text, year round.

For any questions and inquiries about Radyo5’s Taxi Squad and its upcoming activities, please contact the hotline +63939-166-1443.