Rotary Golden Wheel Award for Entrepreneurship Excellence (2024)
George Ilagan Royeca (born January 19, 1982), also known as Mister Angkas, is a Filipinoentrepreneur and business executive who serves as the chief executive officer (CEO) of Angkas, a motorcycle ride-hailing platform in the Philippines.[1] He is known for co-founding Angkas alongside his wife, Singaporean entrepreneur Angeline Tham.[2]
Royeca was born on January 19, 1982, in General Santos, Philippines. He grew up in a family that valued entrepreneurship and innovation, which later influenced his career path.
Career
Royeca became the CEO of Angkas in November 2021, leading one of the Philippines' most prominent motorcycle ride-hailing services.[3] Under his leadership, Angkas has expanded its services and played a significant role in providing affordable and efficient transportation solutions in the Philippines.
In his personal column, *"Peddler of Hope,"* Royeca has written about his commitment to empowering informal workers through his business endeavors. He emphasizes the importance of creating opportunities for marginalized communities and fostering economic growth through innovation.[4]
Political career
In October 2024, Royeca entered politics through the Angkasangga Party-list, filing his certificate of nomination and acceptance (CONA) as its first nominee.[5] The party-list focuses on protecting informal workers' rights and received endorsement from former Manila MayorIsko Moreno, who branded it as "Yorme's Choice" for Manila.[6]
Contributions to entrepreneurship
Royeca is recognized for his efforts to promote entrepreneurship and innovation in the Philippines. Through Angkas, he has created thousands of jobs for motorcycle riders, many of whom were previously part of the informal economy. His work has also inspired other startups to explore innovative solutions to transportation challenges in the country.[7]
Recognition
Royeca has received several notable awards for his entrepreneurial achievements:
Named one of the Ten Outstanding Young Men (TOYM) in 2020[8]
Recipient of the Rotary Golden Wheel Award for Entrepreneurship Excellence in 2024[9][10]
Controversy
On February 17, 2025, Royeca's driver license was suspended by the Land Transportation Office for 90 days after he assumed full responsibility for the viral motorcade of Angkas riders in Cainta, Rizal, on February 4. During the incident, riders obstructed a road intersection to make a left turn, causing traffic delays. Royeca apologized over the incident.[11]
Personal life
Royeca is married to Angeline Tham, a Singaporean entrepreneur who co-founded Angkas with him. The couple has been instrumental in building Angkas into one of the Philippines' leading motorcycle ride-hailing platforms. Royeca currently resides in Cebu, Philippines, where he continues to oversee the operations and growth of Angkas.[12]
Royeca and Tham are known for their collaborative efforts in both business and advocacy, particularly in promoting entrepreneurship and empowering informal workers. Their partnership has been a driving force behind Angkas' success and its impact on the Philippine transportation sector.
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