TNVS operators, ride-hailing firms to shoulder fare discounts - LTFRB

Metro Manila, Philippines - Operators of transportation network vehicle services (TNVS) and ride-hailing firms should shoulder the discounts for students, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities beginning April 7, the transport regulator said.

The move stemmed from a Senate hearing that tackled the fare discount in compliance with a number of laws.

“The fare discounts mandated by law and other regulations shall not be passed on by the TNC and the TNVS operator to the TNVS-Driver unless the TNVS operator is also the driver of the vehicle,” the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTRFB) said in a memorandum dated March 19.

In a statement, LTFRB Chairman Teofilo Guadiz said the board found out that transportation network companies apply different formulas on the fare discount sharing.

Sen. Raffy Tulfo who chairs the public services committee, noted in the hearing that a number of TNVS drivers shoulder the 20% discount, prompting some to avoid accepting booking from students, senior citizens, and PWDs.

“Ang 20% diskwento sa pamasahe ay isang pribilehiyong itinatakda ng batas para sa mga senior citizen, estudyante, at persons with disabilities sa ilalim ng Republic Act No. 9994, RA 11314, at RA 9442. Inaasahan naming lubos itong susundin ng mga TNC at TNVS operator,” Guadiz said.

[Translation: The 20% discount on fares is a privilege granted by law for senior citizens, students, and persons with disabilities (PWDs) under Republic Act No. 9994, RA 11314, and RA 9442. We expect that this will be strictly followed by TNC and TNVS operators.]

He added that the new regulation would assure commuters of a better riding experience.

NewsWatch Plus correspondent Lance Mejico contributed to this report