LTFRB flags ‘priority fee’ of ride-hailing apps
Facade of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board office. FILE PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines — The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Thursday warned Transport Network Companies (TNCs) against collecting charges above the implemented fare structure for Transport Network Vehicle Services (TNVS).
The LTFRB issued this notice after it received an anonymous complaint against TNC’s charging as much as P1,000 as “Priority Boarding Fee” for a one-way ride.
“The LTFRB is currently investigating the said complaint,” the agency said, as it sent letters to all accredited TNCs “warning them against the imposition of excessive fare contrary to current guidelines on TNVS fares.”
The LTFRB also reminded TNCs that they are required to make the rate structure transparent before the potential passenger confirms the ride.
“The LTFRB intends to deploy mystery riders in the next few days to check on the compliance of the TNCs and TNVS operators on the proper fare structure and the terms and conditions of the MC,” it said.
“Any TNC and/or TNVS caught violating the terms and conditions of the MC shall be subject to fines and penalties stated in the Joint Administrative Order 2014-01,” it added.
According to LTFRB, the minimum fare for the TNVS is set at P40 for sedan-type vehicles with additional P15 per kilometer and P2 per minute of travel.
For Premium AUV/SUV, on the other hand, the minimum rate is P50 with additional P18 per kilometer and P2 per minute of travel. Hatchback or Sub-compact type TNVS have a P30 flag down rate with an additional P13 per kilometer and P2 per minute of travel in the fare.
“Surge rate of double the sum of fare per kilometer and per minute travel is applicable for all types of TNVS,” the LTFRB explained.
It then urged the public to report any irregularities committed by the ride-hailing transport companies through its hotline number 1342 or through its Facebook page.
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