TRICTECH: TRICYCLE HAULING APPLICATION

FOR ONLINE BOOKING

Neo M. Durante

Jhemuel D. Montante

Mark Clarence V. Ratio

Jans Cedric R. Sandoval

Southern Luzon State University

College of Engineering

January 2025
TRICTECH HAULING SERVICES

TriTech Hauling Services is an innovative startup dedicated to modernizing the way

residents and businesses in Lucban, Quezon, utilize tricycle services for efficient hauling and
transportation needs. A dynamic team of leaders spearheads the company: Jans Cedric
Sandoval, CEO, drives the vision and strategic growth of the company; Neo Durante, program
Director, ensures seamless implementation of operations; Jhemuel Montante, finance Director,
maintains financial sustainability and profitability; and Mark Clarence Ratio, Operations Director,
overseeing the day-to-day logistics and operational excellence.

Focused on delivering a seamless, tech-driven experience, TriTech combines a user-

friendly mobile app with traditional tricycle transportation to cater to both residential and
commercial clients. The platform enables customers to book hauling services with transparent
pricing, real-time tracking, and efficient scheduling, ensuring reliability and convenience. By
bridging modern technology with a staple form of local transportation, TriTech fosters economic
growth for tricycle operators while offering unparalleled convenience for users.

Committed to sustainability and innovation, TriTech integrates eco-friendly practices and

promotes inclusive transport options tailored to the unique needs of Lucban’s community. The
management team works closely with local stakeholders, government units, and tricycle
operators to ensure the service aligns with the town’s goals for modernization and economic
development. Through its focus on customer satisfaction and local engagement, TriTech is
poised to redefine tricycle-based hauling and create a lasting impact on the community.
COMPANY DESCRIPTION

A. MISSION

Our mission is to transform public transportation in Lucban by introducing an innovative

mobile platform that bridges the gap between residents and tricycle drivers. We strive to provide
a convenient and efficient service that enhances the daily commute experience for the
community, especially in underserved areas. By prioritizing the use of tricycles, which are
deeply rooted in Lucban's culture, we aim to address local transportation challenges while
preserving its unique identity. Our goal is to create an inclusive system that benefits both
passengers and drivers, fostering a mutually supportive relationship. Through this initiative, we
are committed to improving mobility, empowering livelihoods, and contributing to the overall
quality of life in Lucban.

VISION

Our vision is to become the premier transportation solution in Lucban, setting a

benchmark for innovation and community-driven services. We aspire to create a future where
every resident can access safe, affordable, and reliable transportation with ease, regardless of
their location. By leveraging technology, we aim to empower tricycle drivers to optimize their
earnings while providing exceptional service to passengers. We envision a sustainable
transportation system that not only strengthens local economic growth but also promotes
connectivity and inclusivity. Ultimately, our vision is to inspire similar community-focused
solutions, driving progress and development in towns like Lucban across the region.

B. BUSINESS MODEL

Key Partners

TriTech’s key partners include tricycle drivers and operators, who are the primary
service providers, ensuring reliable and consistent transportation for customers. Partnerships
with local government units (LGUs) and tourism offices are essential for regulatory compliance
and promoting the app to visitors during peak tourist seasons, like the Pahiyas Festival.
Collaboration with educational institutions allows special packages to be designed for students,
enhancing their commuting experience. Financial and digital payment platforms like G-Cash and
Pay Maya enable secure and seamless cashless transactions. Additionally, partnerships with
local businesses and insurance companies create opportunities for ride discounts, promotional
offers, and safety coverage for both drivers and passengers.

Key Activities

The primary activities of TriTech include the development and continuous improvement
of the app to ensure smooth functionality and user satisfaction. Driver recruitment and
onboarding programs are conducted to guarantee sufficient service coverage and adherence to
quality standards. Marketing campaigns are launched across various channels to raise
awareness and encourage app adoption among Lucban residents and tourists. Customer
support is a vital activity, providing quick issue resolution through in-app chat or call options.
Furthermore, data collection and analysis are carried out to monitor performance, identify
trends, and implement upgrades that benefit users and drivers.

Value Propositions

TriTech allows residents and tourists to book tricycles anytime, eliminating the hassle of
waiting for rides. The app provides transparency in pricing, ensuring customers know the cost
upfront without hidden charges. Safety is a top priority, with features like real-time tracking, a
driver rating system, and optional accident coverage. The platform also enhances driver income
opportunities by connecting them with a larger customer base and offering incentives for
excellent performance. Lastly, TriTech promotes the cultural identity and growth of Lucban,
showcasing a community-focused approach that encourages local economic development.

Customer Segments

TriTech caters to a diverse group of customers, starting with Lucban residents, including
families, employees, and senior citizens who value accessible transportation. Students, both
from local schools and universities, benefit from affordable and reliable rides to and from their
institutions. Tourists visiting Lucban for festivals, heritage sites, and scenic attractions rely on
TriTech for efficient mobility. Workers, such as market vendors and construction laborers, use
the app for their daily commutes. Local businesses needing quick delivery services also form an
important segment, utilizing tricycles for cost-effective and timely logistics.
Customer Relationships

Through TriTech's user-focused features, customer relationships are built on trust,

convenience, and engagement. The app includes a feedback system where riders and drivers
can rate each other, fostering accountability and quality assurance. Loyalty programs, such as
discounts for frequent users, encourage retention and repeat usage. Active engagement with
users is maintained through social media updates, promotions, and events, ensuring customers
feel connected to the app's vision. In-app customer support is readily available, providing timely
assistance and addressing concerns effectively.

Channels

TriTech primarily operates through its mobile app, which is designed to be intuitive and
accessible for all users. Social media platforms, including Facebook and Instagram, serve as
key promotional channels to spread awareness and attract new users. Partnerships with local
schools, workplaces, and tourism offices provide targeted outreach to specific customer groups.
Word of mouth and community endorsements from local organizations help build credibility and
encourage adoption. TriTech also leverages local events, such as festivals, to market its
services and demonstrate its value to the community.

Key Resources

The core resource of TriTech is its mobile application, which integrates GPS tracking,
real-time updates, and payment processing. A well-maintained database of registered drivers
and customers ensures seamless operation and data-driven decision-making. The app is
supported by human resources, including developers, customer service staff, and marketing
experts, all dedicated to delivering an exceptional experience. Partnerships with financial
institutions and telecommunication providers ensure reliable infrastructure for payments and
app usage. Lastly, the trust and goodwill of the Lucban community form an intangible but crucial
resource for the app’s long-term success.

Revenue Streams

TriTech generates revenue by taking a small commission from each completed ride,
creating a sustainable income stream. Additional revenue comes from premium subscriptions
offered to drivers, providing them access to enhanced features and benefits. Advertising
partnerships with local businesses allow the app to earn through promotions displayed to users.
TriTech also plans to introduce optional priority booking fees for users seeking immediate rides
during peak hours. This diversified revenue model ensures both scalability and financial stability
for the business.

Cost Structure

The primary costs for TriTech include app development and regular updates to maintain
performance and user satisfaction. Marketing expenses cover advertisements, social media
campaigns, and promotional offers aimed at attracting and retaining customers. Operational
costs include driver onboarding, customer support, and maintaining partnerships with local
stakeholders. Payment processing fees for digital transactions and GPS infrastructure are also
significant expenses. Lastly, incentives for drivers, such as performance bonuses or fuel
subsidies, are essential to maintain high-quality service.

C. VALUE PROPOSITION:
TriTech Hauling Services offers a seamless and reliable hauling solution that combines
the convenience of modern technology with the accessibility of tricycle services, tailored to meet
the unique needs of Lucban's residents and businesses."

UNIQUE SELLING PROPOSITION (USP):

"Effortless tricycle hauling with real-time tracking, transparent pricing, and a commitment
to supporting local livelihoods."
BACKGROUND OF THE PROBLEM

Tricycles are the primary mode of transportation in many barangays in the Philippines,
serving as a reliable and affordable "final-mile" solution for daily commutes to work, markets,
and schools. While riding tricycles is practical and cost-effective compared to driving private
vehicles, there are notable issues associated with their operation. It serves as an essential and
affordable means of mobility for millions of Filipinos, especially in rural areas and small urban
centers.

According to the study of Malit Jr. (2010), in the Philippines, approximately 76.34% of the
population, or nearly 27 million Filipinos, make up the informal sector, with the majority of these
workers being unorganized. Among them, tricycle drivers play a vital role in the informal
economy by offering accessible and efficient transportation services, particularly in remote
areas.

While their contributions to the domestic economy are significant, most tricycle drivers
are not covered by the Philippine Labor Code, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation and
unemployment issues. This gap in policy led Filipino legislator Danilo Ramon Fernandez to
propose House Bill No. 1955, also known as the Magna Carta for Workers in the Informal
Economy, which aims to establish social and labor protections for informal sector workers.
Although the Magna Carta seeks to introduce “social safety nets” for informal workers,
challenges such as weak enforcement and insufficient government funding hinder the
development of robust labor protections, especially in rural areas. The affordability of
motorcycles, particularly popular models like the Wave, XRM, and TMX, continues to attract
thousands of Filipinos annually, enhancing transportation services in rural communities.
However, this has significant economic implications for tricycle drivers. The growing preference
for motorcycles has led to a decline in the demand for tricycle services, threatening the
livelihoods of tricycle drivers across the country.

Lucban is a landlocked municipality located in the province of Quezon. It encompasses a

total land area of 130.46 square kilometers (50.37 square miles), representing 1.49% of the
province’s total land area. According to the 2020 Census, Lucban has a population of 53,091,
which constitutes 2.72% of Quezon's total population and 0.33% of the overall population of the
CALABARZON region. With this population, the town has a population density of 407 residents
per square kilometer (1,054 residents per square mile), reflecting a moderately populated area.
 Lucban is subdivided into 32 barangays, each contributing to the town’s unique
character and culture. These barangays are interconnected by a network of roads, but public
transportation accessibility varies. Tricycles are the primary and most popular mode of public
transportation in Lucban, providing convenient and affordable travel for residents across much
of the town. Tricycle routes are well-established in the more developed and densely populated
areas, making it easy for residents in these locations to access key destinations such as
markets, schools, churches, and government offices.

However, some areas in Lucban, particularly those located farther from the town center
or in more remote barangays, lack regular tricycle routes. Residents in these less accessible
locations often face challenges in commuting, as they are required to walk considerable
distances to reach the nearest tricycle stops. This situation can cause significant inconvenience,
especially for individuals with limited mobility, the elderly, and those carrying goods or traveling
during inclement weather. The absence of direct transportation routes in these areas highlights
a gap in the town's infrastructure and transportation services, which may need to be addressed
to improve accessibility and enhance the quality of life for residents.

PROPOSED SOLUTION TO THE PROBLEM PRESENTED

The researchers have developed a startup idea for a mobile application similar to Grab
or Angkas. However, instead of focusing on motorcycles, the app prioritizes the use of tricycles,
which are the primary and most popular mode of public transportation in Lucban. The goal of
this innovation is to address the specific transportation needs of the town by creating a more
efficient and accessible system for both residents and tricycle drivers, who will serve as the
primary beneficiaries of the application.

This proposed app aims to bridge the gaps in transportation services in Lucban,
particularly in areas where regular tricycle routes are unavailable. By leveraging technology, the
app will allow residents to conveniently book rides using their smartphones, reducing the
discomfort and inconvenience of walking long distances to find transportation. The app can also
incorporate features such as ride tracking, estimated fare calculations, and route optimization,
ensuring a seamless and user-friendly experience for passengers.

For tricycle drivers, the platform offers significant benefits by providing them with a
steady stream of passengers and the ability to maximize their earnings. Through the app,
drivers can receive ride requests directly, enabling them to save time and fuel by reducing the
need to search for passengers. Additionally, the app can introduce a rating and feedback
system to encourage professionalism and improve service quality.

By addressing the transportation challenges in Lucban, this startup has the potential to
enhance mobility for residents while simultaneously creating economic opportunities for tricycle
drivers. The initiative also supports local culture by modernizing an already integral mode of
transportation. With proper implementation and community involvement, this app could
revolutionize how residents and drivers interact, promoting convenience, inclusivity, and
sustainable growth for the municipality.

OPPORTUNITY AND TARGET MARKET

TricTech’s primary target market consists of residents and commuters in Lucban,

particularly those living in remote areas with limited access to convenient transportation. By
targeting users who are technologically inclined, budget-conscious, and time-sensitive, TricTech
ensures that the service meets the needs of those seeking quick and affordable transportation
solutions. In selecting the target market, several factors were considered by researchers
including the high demand for reliable and convenient transportation in areas with geographical
constraints, demographic analysis revealing sufficient smartphone penetration, and the
recognition of a market gap where no digital platforms currently connect tricycle drivers with
passengers. Additionally, the local culture and practices were taken into account,
acknowledging the traditional use of tricycles in Lucban and openness to adopting new
technologies.

COMPETITION

TricTech’s competitive advantage in the marketplace stems from its focused approach to
meeting the specific transportation needs of Lucban residents, particularly those in remote
areas. The researchers have developed a highly localized and tailored solution by directly
connecting individuals with tricycle drivers through a user-friendly digital platform. This targeted
approach ensures that the app caters to the unique demands of the community, providing
efficient, affordable, and on-demand transportation services that align with the region's reliance
on tricycles. To compete against established competitors, the researchers emphasize TriTech’s
unique value proposition of delivering a specialized and culturally attuned transportation
solution, combined with a commitment to affordability and convenience. This enables TricTech
to effectively compete by offering a service that is both relevant and indispensable to the local
population.

MARKETING AND SALES

The researchers have developed a concise marketing strategy for TricTech, drawing on
survey findings that show strong potential for a tricycle ride-hailing app in Lucban, Quezon. The
strategy highlights safe, reliable drivers, quick booking, and cashless payments—features
valued by the community. Given that most respondents earn less than 5,000 pesos per month,
affordability is a key focus, with fares set within their financial reach. Digital marketing
campaigns, social media promotions, and local influencers will be leveraged, alongside on-
ground activities like informational booths. Key features such as pre-booking rides, real-time
location tracking, and a loyalty program will be emphasized to meet commuter needs. By
focusing on affordability, safety, and convenience, the researchers aim to enhance user
satisfaction and adoption, significantly improving the transportation landscape in Lucban.
MANAGEMENT TEAM
 TricTech Inc. thrives under the leadership of a skilled and dynamic management team,
each member contributing specialized knowledge and expertise in their respective fields.
Together, they guide the company toward innovation, efficiency, and sustainable growth,
ensuring that TricTech Inc. remains competitive in a rapidly evolving industry. Below is a
detailed description of the team members, their roles, and contributions:

Jans Cedric Sandoval – Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

As the Chief Executive Officer of TricTech Inc., Jans Cedric Sandoval spearheads the
company’s strategic direction, decision-making, and overall operations. With a visionary mindset
and strong leadership skills, Jans focuses on fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and
excellence. He is responsible for aligning the company’s goals with long-term market trends,
ensuring sustainable growth. His proven ability to inspire teams and build partnerships positions
TricTech Inc. as a leader in its industry.

Neo Durante – Program Director

Neo Durante oversees the development, planning, and execution of TricTech Inc.’s
programs and initiatives. With a deep understanding of project management and program
design, he ensures that every project aligns with the company’s mission and delivers
measurable results. Neo’s creative thinking and ability to adapt programs to client needs drive
innovation and continuous improvement. He is also instrumental in fostering client relationships
and ensuring high satisfaction levels across all programs.

Jhemuel Montante – Finance Director

As Finance Director, Jhemuel Montante is the backbone of TricTech Inc.’s financial

health. He is responsible for budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis to guide the
company’s strategic investments and resource allocation. Jhemuel ensures compliance with
financial regulations and implements strategies to optimize revenue and reduce costs. With a
keen eye for detail and strong analytical skills, he provides the leadership team with data-driven
insights to support decision-making and drive profitability.

Mark Clarence Ratio – Operations Director

 Mark Clarence Ratio manages the company’s daily operations, ensuring all processes
are optimized for efficiency and effectiveness. He is responsible for overseeing logistics,
resource management, and operational workflows to maintain high productivity levels. Mark's
proactive approach to problem-solving and process improvement ensures that TricTech Inc.
remains agile and adaptable to industry changes. His leadership ensures that operational goals
are met while maintaining a focus on quality and client satisfaction.

Patrick Manalo – Program Specialist

Patrick Manalo collaborates closely with the Program Director to design, implement, and
monitor TricTech Inc.’s programs. His hands-on involvement ensures that all initiatives are
executed on time and within budget while meeting the company’s quality standards. Patrick
brings creativity and a results-driven approach to his role, contributing to the continuous
enhancement of the company’s offerings. His ability to adapt and innovate ensures the success
of each program under his supervision.

John Villaverde – Finance Specialist

John Villaverde plays a crucial role in maintaining the financial integrity of TricTech Inc.
by managing financial records, preparing reports, and conducting detailed analyses. He works
alongside the Finance Director to ensure accurate budgeting, efficient resource allocation, and
regulatory compliance. John’s attention to detail and strong problem-solving skills makes him an
invaluable asset to the company, helping to identify financial opportunities and mitigate risks.

David Reyes – Operations Specialist

David Reyes supports the Operations Director by handling day-to-day logistics and
operational tasks. He is responsible for monitoring workflows, identifying inefficiencies, and
proposing solutions to enhance productivity. David’s proactive mindset and ability to streamline
processes contribute significantly to the overall efficiency of TricTech Inc. His hands-on
approach ensures that operations run seamlessly, allowing the company to maintain its
competitive edge.

Together, this management team combines expertise in leadership, program

development, financial management, and operational efficiency. Their shared vision,
commitment to excellence, and collaborative approach ensure that TricTech Inc. consistently
exceeds client expectations while staying ahead of industry trends. By leveraging their unique
skills and backgrounds, they drive the company’s success and set the stage for long-term
growth.

FINANCIAL PROJECTIONS
 The successful completion of a digital project, such as a website or application, involves
various stages that require careful planning and budget allocation. This review delves into the
existing literature on key cost components: development costs, UI/UX design, coding, website
service publishing fees, hidden costs, and marketing, providing price ranges in Philippine pesos
to contextualize the analysis.

Development Costs

The total cost of development depends on the scope, scale, and complexity of the
project. According to Choi and Kim (2020), accurate cost estimation is essential to avoid budget
overruns and ensure resource optimization. Development costs typically account for a
significant portion of the project budget, including expenses for software, tools, and developer
salaries. Sommerville (2016) emphasizes that agile development methodologies, commonly
used today, require iterative funding as projects evolve.

In the Philippine context, custom software projects cost anywhere between PHP 50,000
to PHP 200,000 for small- to medium-sized projects. However, enterprise-level software or
those involving advanced technologies like AI and blockchain may exceed PHP 1,000,000
(Clutch.co). These costs often include labor, testing, and basic integration services.
UI/UX Design Phase

UI/UX design plays a crucial role in ensuring that the product meets user expectations.
Garrett (2010) outlines that the design process involves five critical planes: strategy, scope,
structure, skeleton, and surface. These steps ensure a logical flow of design decisions to create
an intuitive, user-centered experience. Nielsen and Loranger (2006) further highlight that
usability improvements can increase user satisfaction by up to 83% in web-based applications.

The cost of UI/UX design in the Philippines varies depending on the complexity of the
interface. Freelance designers charge between PHP 10,000 to PHP 50,000 for basic designs,
while agencies providing more extensive services, such as branding integration and user
testing, may charge PHP 100,000 to PHP 300,000 (Interaction Design Foundation). Investments
in high-quality design reduce user churn and improve conversion rates, making it a critical
phase in the development process.

Coding Phase

Coding translates the project’s design and features into a functional product. As
Pressman and Maxim (2020) note, this phase requires attention to detail and often represents
the bulk of the project timeline. Hackernoon reports that the programming costs depend on the
team’s expertise, the language or framework used, and the complexity of the backend and front-
end systems. In the Philippines, coding for simple websites or applications costs around PHP
20,000 to PHP 100,000, while e-commerce platforms or custom-built systems with API
integrations may cost PHP 200,000 to PHP 500,000. These costs may include debugging,
version control, and basic security implementations.

Additionally, agile coding practices help reduce errors and ensure scalability, though
they may increase the timeline and labor costs.

Website Service Publishing Fees

Publishing a website involves two key recurring costs: hosting services and domain
registration. Rizwan et al. (2021) compare various hosting platforms, noting that businesses
often face trade-offs between affordability and features such as bandwidth, uptime, and
customer support. Premium hosting options with advanced security and performance
optimization are recommended for commercial websites.

In the Philippines, annual hosting costs typically range from PHP 5,000 to PHP 20,000,
depending on the provider and package. Domain registration costs are relatively affordable,
starting at PHP 500 to PHP 2,000 per year. Popular hosting providers like GoDaddy, Bluehost,
and local companies often offer bundled plans that combine hosting and domain registration for
a discounted price.

Hidden Costs

Hidden costs, often overlooked during initial planning, can significantly impact a project's
budget. Boehm (1981) and McConnell (2004) identify maintenance, technical support, and
unforeseen technical challenges as common sources of hidden expenses. Inadequate planning
for these costs can lead to financial strain and project delays. In the Philippines, hidden costs
include monthly maintenance fees ranging from PHP 5,000 to PHP 10,000, system updates that
can cost PHP 10,000 to PHP 50,000 per iteration, and unforeseen expenses related to
cybersecurity breaches or scalability upgrades. Including a contingency budget to address such
costs is a recommended practice.

Marketing Costs

Marketing ensures the digital product reaches its intended audience. Kotler and Keller
(2015) emphasize the need for a robust marketing strategy to maximize reach and impact.
Traditional marketing has been largely replaced by digital approaches like search engine
optimization (SEO), pay-per-click (PPC) campaigns, and social media advertising, which offer
cost-effective ways to engage target users. In the Philippines, small-scale digital marketing
campaigns cost around PHP 10,000 to PHP 30,000 per month. Larger campaigns, such as
those involving influencer partnerships or nationwide outreach, may require budgets exceeding
PHP 100,000. HubSpot notes that allocating at least 10% of the overall budget to marketing can
significantly enhance a project’s visibility and ROI.

From the table above, the firm is expected to achieve profitability in its fourth year, a
milestone where revenues surpass expenses, generating a positive income of around 2 million
pesos without tax. This marks the point where the business begins to sustain itself.
References:

Malit, F. T., Jr. (2010). Globalization and its impact on tricycle drivers in the Philippine informal
economy. Philippine Journal of Labor and Industrial Relations, 30(1-2), 210–223

PhilAtlas. (n.d.). Lucban, Quezon. Retrieved November 17, 2024, from

https://www.philatlas.com/luzon/r04a/quezon/lucban.html

Boehm, B. (1981). Software Engineering Economics. Prentice Hall. Choi, H., & Kim, J. (2020).
Cost estimation for software projects: A systematic review. Journal of Systems and Software,
172, 110–125.

Garrett, J. J. (2010). The Elements of User Experience: User-Centered Design for the Web and
Beyond. New Riders.

McConnell, S. (2004). Code Complete: A Practical Handbook of Software Construction (2nd

ed.).

Pressman, R. S., & Maxim, B. R. (2020). Software Engineering: A Practitioner's Approach (9th
ed.).
McGraw-Hill Education. Rizwan, M., et al. (2021). Cost evaluation of web hosting platforms: A
comparative study. Journal of Information Technology and Computer Science,6(4),55–66.

Ryan, D. (2014). Understanding Digital Marketing: Marketing Strategies for Engaging the Digital
Generation (3rd ed.).