LTFRB ordered to explain delays in TNVS accreditation

MANILA, Philippines — The Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) on Wednesday ordered the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to explain the delays in the processing of the accreditation of transport network vehicle services (TNVS) units.

In a Notice to Explain addressed to LTFRB Chairman Martin Delgra, the ARTA has given the agency three days to explain the delays in the issuance of provisional authority (PA) and certificates of public convenience (CPC).

“Your written explanation shall form part of the records of the Authority and shall be determinative of the Authority’s next course of action,” the notice read.

The ARTA has also asked the LTFRB to explain other “alleged irregularities” including the following:

-LTFRB’s failure to implement the Memorandum Circular 2018-005, which allowed hatchback cars to operate as TNVS
-Failure to conduct hearings and render decisions for an unreasonable length of time on the applications of CPC and motions for reconsideration of dismissals
-Imposition of additional requirements without due cause;
– Imposition of undue regulatory burden and cost;
– Inconsistent, arbitrary and varying interpretations and implementations of the rules and regulations on TNVS applications;
– Implementing abrupt changes in the requirements and procedures for TNVS application without due notice to the public

Delgra said the LTFRB will issue a reply within three days.

“We will reply within the period given and cite the changes we have put in place,” the LTFRB chairman said in a statement.

He added that the agency has met with the ARTA Board last week on the issue and has “briefed them on what the agency has been doing to address them.”/ac