Anti-red tape agency orders LTFRB to explain TNVS delays

TNVS drivers and operators holding a protest rally. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

THREE days. This is how long the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) was given to explain the delays in the processing of accreditation applications for transport network vehicle services (TNVS).

The order, contained in a Notice to Explain letter addressed to LTFRB Chairman Martin Delgra III, and issued on Wednesday, came from the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA).

The ARTA is asking the transport agency to explain the delays in the issuance of provisional authority (PA) and certificates of public convenience (CPC) to TNVS units applicants.

“Your written explanation shall form part of the records of the Authority and shall be determinative of the Authority’s next course of action,” the notice read.

According to a report posted in the Philippine Daily Inquirer Wednesday, the ARTA was quoted as also asking the LTFRB to shed light on other “alleged irregularities,” including the following:

• LTFRB’s failure to implement the Memorandum Circular 2018-005, which allowed hatchback cars to operate as TNVS
• Failure to conduct hearings and render decisions for an unreasonable length of time on the applications of CPC and motions for reconsideration of dismissals
• Imposition of additional requirements without due cause
• Imposition of undue regulatory burden and cost
• Inconsistent, arbitrary and varying interpretations and implementations of the rules and regulations on TNVS applications
• Implementing abrupt changes in the requirements and procedures for TNVS application without due notice to the public

Delgra said the LTFRB will issue a reply within three days, the Inquirer quoted the official as saying.

“We will reply within the period given and cite the changes we have put in place,” the LTFRB chairman said in a statement.