Grab head suggests 75,000 cap on TNVs, instead of LTFRB’s 45,000

Grab Philippines head Brian Cu (File photo by CATHY MIRANDA / INQUIRER.net)

The cap on the number of transport network vehicles (TNVs) must be increased to at least 75,000 instead of the 45,000 decided on by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) of 45,000 in Metro Manila, according to Brian Cu, head of Grab Philippines.

“I think 75,000 would be the number of unique drivers on the road right now,” Cu said in a press briefing held on Tuesday in Quezon City. “So yung lumabas na 45,000 medyo nagulat kami.”

A memorandum circular published by the LTFRB last Jan. 19 stated the common supply base of TNVs, which would be reviewed every three months after it becomes effective 15 days after publication.

The LTFRB also put a cap of 500 in Metro Cebu and 200 in Pampanga.

Despite the limit on the number of cars that would be allowed on the road, the LTFRB will start accepting franchise applications for TNV permits starting Feb. 5.

Cu said his company had suggested to the LTFRB to consider using a master list of active drivers to be prioritized during the applications.

“We’re ready to submit active drivers list,” he said. “Ang iniiwasan namin is random people going applying na hindi active sa ngayon. What we need to do is prioritize the most active drivers and proven track record of good service – yung umaasa dito sa kanilang livelihood. I don’t think full-time drivers will complete the 45,000 quote – maybe half of it. So we move to semi active.”

“We’ve been hearing some groups going in trying to secure number of franchises for active members,” he added. “Ang gagawin lang kukunin tapos ibebenta, which is dapat bawal. We don’t know if makalusot. So since may masterlist, i-suggest namin gawing basis ang masterlist.”

He also said that putting a limit on the drivers of ride-hailing services on the road would also be difficult for passengers.

“Mas mahihirapan ang pasahero because of the price computed,” he said. “Mas madalas sisipa ang surge ng higher fares and that would be seen across the day. As a passenger you’ll find another mode of transport. You’ll be in the MRT [or go on a] three-hour commute or you’ll bring your own car, which would result in traffic situation.” /atm