LTFRB junks all cases vs Uber, Grab transport apps

MANILA — The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has dismissed all motions filed by a transport group against the operations of vehicles under the ridesharing apps Uber and Grab.

In a consolidated order made public on Tuesday, the LTFRB denied for lack of merit the petitions filed by 1-United Transport Koalisyon (1-Utak) against the operations of the Transport Network Companies (TNCs) and issuance of franchise to their partner Transport Network Vehicle Services (TNVS).

“We gave both parties ample time to air their pleas and contentions, and the Board decided to make a disposition that would promote better mobility and to the benefit the riding public,” LTFRB Chair Winston Ginez said.

1-Utak said the department order permitting TNCs and TNVS has been violating the right to equal protection of other public utility vehicles covered by the moratorium on issuance of franchise. It added that TNCs could practice surge pricing while PUVs have to seek LTFRB approval for any fare adjustment.

Uber said the DO should be  presumed valid until nullified by higher courts and the LTFRB had no jurisdiction to determine constitutionality. Uber and Grab also said 1-Utak had no legal standing to oppose the TNC’s application and accreditation.

Ginez said, “PUV operators and transport groups should welcome the challenge and competition for better public transport service, which would serve the best interest of the public safety and convenience.”

Another transport group, Stop and Go, has a pending petition in the Quezon City Regional Trial Court against the DO for TNCs and TNVS.  SFM