The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board on Wednesday disclosed that it is set to open more than 4,000 application slots for transport network vehicle service starting 9 January 2023.
This, as several passengers reported difficulties in booking a ride during the holiday season.

In a television interview, LTFRB technical division head Joel Bolano said that the TVNS applicant should try to get approved by a transportation network company, adding that applications would be sent to the LTFRB by the TNC. Bolano mentioned that the application does not have a deadline.

"First, the applicants should be TNC-accredited and the Board allows the TNC to help the accredited TNVS operators or drivers to process their application," Bolano said. "The Board needs to ensure that the applications the TNC will file are all genuine and already vetted."

To recall, around 2,000 applicants passed for a franchise when LTFRB started accepting applications for TNVS in May.

Now, LTFRB also made it easier for applicants, especially for those whose cars are on a payment plan to meet the requirements and the agency stressed that applicants do not have to show a certificate of conformity from a bank when they apply.

Instead, they can show the documents during the hearing.

"While waiting for the hearing, the applicants will be given temporary permission to do business. The TNC might help them in paying the banks," Bolano said.