Proper TNVS registration ‘imperative,’ say transport agencies  

June 14,2019

A commuter books a vehicle via ride-hailing app Grab in Metro Manila. (Photo by RICHARD A. REYES / Philippine Daily Inquirer)

REACTING to ride-hailing app Grab’s June 10 deactivation of 5,000 drivers from its platform, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) said in a statement issued on Wednesday that the proper registration of cars operating as Transport Network Vehicle Service (TNVS), under which category Grab-accredited vehicles belong, “is imperative for the safety and security of the riding public.”

The transport agencies stressed; “[A]cquiring a franchise to operate as a public transport is a privilege, as it carries the responsibility and accountability of safely and securely transporting the commuting public to destinations. As such, the government must ascertain that the applicant is qualified and able to assume the duty of public transport service.”

The 5,000 drivers were removed from Grab’s platform for failing to comply with governmental franchise requirements.

The DOTr and LTFRB clarified their intention is not to “deprive opportunities for livelihood to applicants.”

But the agencies noted TNVS operators and drivers have been given more than ample time to comply with the requirements in applying for a Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC) or a Provisional Authority (PA). They cited LTFRB records indicate that 40,522 TNVS units have already been granted with a CPC and PA.

This proves the “timelines given were realistic and achievable,” the DOTr and LTFRB statement read. It added the agencies are “more than willing to grant a CPC or PA to units that have diligently completed the requirements.”

The LTFRB on June 10 opened 10,000 slots for new TNVS applications.

Applicants are encouraged to personally file their applications. The LTFRB said it also allows the filing through a representative, although this is limited to specific family members, to make the process easier.

Disclaimer: The comments uploaded on this site do not necessarily represent or reflect the views of management and owner of Cebudailynews. We reserve the right to exclude comments that we deem to be inconsistent with our editorial standards.