Lawmaker urges LTFRB to probe Grab’s fare surges

A lawmaker has called on the Land Transportation and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to conduct an investigation into complaints that Grab Philippines is charging exorbitant fares.

Kabayan party-list Representative Ciriaco Calalang, a member of the House transportation committee, said the LTFRB is already aware of the complaints; thus, it should launch a probe on the ride-hailing service.

“They know of the complaints that Grab drivers are choosing passengers and seeking higher rates,” he said in a statement.

His recommendation is to compel Grab to “self-regulate, enforce discipline, and weed out its rogue drivers.”

“This chaotic situation cannot [and] must not be allowed to let commuter rights be trampled upon,” he said, adding that the transport network company is “behaving like a monopoly now.”

The complaints were triggered by Grab’s surge pricing last Monday when Uber officially ended its operations in the Philippines.

READ: As Uber exits, Grab hit by complaints about high rates

Grab recently acquired the Southeast operations of Uber, which led to its exit in the country. Last week, the LTFRB directed Grab to “immediately” bring down its surge pricing cap from twice the regular rate to just 1.5 times.

Grab’s government communications manager Fiona Nicolas said they have already followed the order; however, fares may remain high in the meantime due to their limited number of drivers. – eee