LTFRB: Displaced Uber drivers have this option

For the duration of Uber’s one-month suspension, its drivers can be accommodated by its rivals Grab and u-Hop, according to the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).

LTFRB board member and spokesperson Aileen Lizada told reporters on Thursday that all of Uber’s accredited Transportation Network Vehicle Service (TNVS) units may temporarily enroll in Grab and u-Hop’s systems.

In a resolution, the LTFRB cited the “exigency of public service” and the predicament of Uber drivers affected by the suspension. These concerns were also raised by senators who hosted a meeting between Uber and LTFRB officials on Wednesday.

“The decision of the board is based on the urgency of the matter, for public service, particularly the riding public, for their convenience and benefit, as well as the TNVS [drivers] who are displaced because of Uber’s irregular conduct,” Lizada said.

To be accommodated by Grab and u-Hop, Uber drivers must present their accreditation from the transport network company (TNC) and proof of insurance coverage as TNVS.

The resolution also required Grab and u-Hop to submit daily to the LTFRB a list of Uber drivers added to their respective platforms. Both of them, however, must maintain a separate database for Uber units.

The accommodated TNVS shall be covered by the terms and conditions governing Grab and u-Hop. The two TNCs’ policies for their drivers, including incentives and similar benefits, shall also apply to Uber drivers.

The resolution, which took effect immediately, was signed by LTFRB chair Martin Delgra III, Lizada and board member Ronaldo Corpus.

The LTFRB suspended Uber’s operations for one month effective Aug. 15 after the TNC was found to have continued accepting and accrediting new drivers. Under an order issued by the board on July 26, the TNCs were barred from recruiting and activating new drivers while a technical working group was drawing up regulations for app-based rides, including the number of vehicles allowed per company.

Meanwhile, Lizada confirmed on Thursday that Uber had offered to pay a P10-million fine instead of serving a one-month suspension.

Uber also submitted a list of its TNVS drivers and the proposed financial assistance for them for the LTFRB’s consideration.

It requested that a hearing on its proposals be held on Aug. 23, but Lizada said the board would still need time to study Uber’s offer.