LTFRB summons 19 ride-hailing providers for not following new fare hikes

MANILA, Philippines — The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Thursday said it summoned 19 ride-hailing platform providers after they allegedly failed to implement the required fare adjustments.

According to the LTFRB, it issued a show-cause order to at least 19 Transport Network Companies (TNCs) for failing to implement the approved fare increase, which took effect on Monday, Sept. 28.

Acting LTFRB Chairman Atty. Greg G. Pua, Jr. said Thursday that it received complaints from ride-hailing drivers about some TNCs’ failure to implement the new fare rates for Transport Network Vehicle Service (TNVS).

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They allegedly continued the old fare system despite the Department of Transportation’s newly implemented fare adjustments for public utility vehicles.

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“Para sa kaalaman ng lahat, ang TNVS partner po ang gumagastos sa gasolina at diesel, at hindi ang mga TNCs. Kaya kapag hindi na-implement ang fare increase para sa kanila, sila po ang maaapektuhan at hindi ang mga TNCs,” Pua explained in the same press release.

(“For everyone’s information, it is the TNVS partner who shoulders the cost of gasoline and diesel, not the TNCs. Therefore, if the fare increase for them is not implemented, they are the ones who will be affected, not the TNCs.”)

Under the approved fare hikes, the base fare for TNVS sedan increased to P65 from P45, while rates for AUVs climbed to P75 from P55. Hatchback rates also increased to P55 from P35, while premium TNVS fares were adjusted to P165 from P145.

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Their alleged “defiance” resulted in unfair charges that did not align with the newly authorized fare adjustments, which the agency said violates applicable LTFRB rules and regulations.

The 19 platform providers were tasked to explain in writing within three working days upon receipt why their respective accreditations should not be suspended or canceled.

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Meanwhile, their hearing was set on Oct. 7, Wednesday.

“Failure on the part of the respondent to appear before the Hearing Officer and file an Answer, shall be considered as a waiver on its part to be heard and shall cause the imposition of a penalty,” as stated in the order. /mr