TNVS group protests new LTFRB memo on surge pricing

MANILA, Philippines — A group of Transport Network Vehicle Services (TNVS) on Friday expressed their dismay over the new memorandum of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board which adjusts and cuts surge pricing for TNVS, emphasizing that many drivers will be heavily affected by this order. 

Based on the LTFRB memorandum circular No. 56, the surge price cap for the TNVS vehicles shall be limited to 1x, which means that the maximum allowable surge pricing for all TNVS trips shall not be more than the summation of the per-kilometer rate and per-minute travel time.

READ: LTFRB issues circular imposing cut, changes in surge pricing for TNVS

The TNVS Community Philippines argued that surge fees is a mechanism that helps drivers maintain fair income amid the volume of traffic and increase in oil prices. The group noted that a reduction in surge pricing will directly affect their income, especially during the holiday season.

“If [the fare] is reduced during the season of peak demand, more drivers will be forced to go offline during high-demand hours as their time and effort are not anymore worth it,” TNVS Community Philippines said in a statement written in Filipino.

READ: TNVS drivers warned vs ‘unjustified’ cancellations

The group also said that while they are willing to have a dialogue and coordinate with the LTFRB, fare changes must first be consulted with them. 

“Being fair should not just be for commuters. There should also be fairness for drivers who make ends meet everyday on the road,” the group stressed.

The memorandum will be effective from December 17, 2025 to January 4, 2026. /mr