Over the weekend, I came across a story that resonates with many in the riding public: A commuter group calling on the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to uniformly enforce government-mandated discounts for students, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities (PWDs).

These discounts are not just a financial relief but also a source of comfort for working and non-working Filipinos in these special categories of commuters. They apply to rides across all digital ride-hailing platforms operated by transport network companies (TNCs).

With advancements in transportation technology, digital ride-hailing platforms have become indispensable for many commuters, particularly in the country’s urban areas.

As these platforms’ services become more popular, the need for standardized fare structures is increasingly critical. A consistent discount ensures convenience and promotes fairness, accessibility, and financial relief for some of the country’s most vulnerable populations.

The rationale for enforcing uniform discounts is based on the principle of equality. Students, senior citizens, and PWDs often have fixed, limited, or no incomes, making transportation costs a significant burden for them. Although the law mandates discounts for these groups, inconsistent application across ride-hailing platforms can create disparities that undermine the effectiveness of these discounts.

By implementing a standardized discount system, the government can guarantee that all eligible individuals receive equitable benefits, irrespective of the ride-hailing service they choose. This approach aligns with the legislation’s overall intent and promotes fairness and accessibility within public transportation. Such standardization would reduce confusion among users navigating various promotional offerings from different services, ensuring no one is disadvantaged based on their service selection.

The discount initiative also fosters a culture of inclusivity in public transportation. It encourages more individuals to take advantage of ride-hailing services while knowing they will receive consistent support, enhancing overall mobility options for the community.

Inconsistent application creates confusion for consumers. Another concern relates to the burden on drivers to absorb government-mandated discounts.

Implementing a uniform discount policy would clarify the responsibilities of both TNCs and drivers. It would ensure that ride-hailing companies bear the costs of these discounts rather than placing the financial burden solely on drivers. Such a balanced approach would prevent unfair revenue loss for drivers while still providing necessary discounts to those who need them most.

The absence of standardization makes the customer experience more complex, often causing individuals to relinquish their rights out of convenience or frustration. A uniform policy would offer clear and easily understandable guidelines, empowering commuters to assert their rights without fearing complications or misunderstandings.

The discrepancies likewise create opportunities for exploitation and potential legal violations. Some platforms reportedly fail to apply the required discounts, taking advantage of uninformed commuters.

There should be a greater focus on an equitable public transportation environment by addressing the issues of accessibility and financial sustainability, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their socio-economic status, can enjoy the benefits of modern transportation services. By prioritizing fairness and consistency, we can create a system that truly serves the community’s needs, promoting inclusivity and supporting the most vulnerable.

A uniform discount policy, therefore, would facilitate stricter oversight and accountability from TNCs, reducing opportunities for exploitation. The government has a responsibility to ensure the rights and welfare of its citizens, and a uniform discount policy is a step in the right direction. Regulatory bodies like the LTFRB would have a framework within which to monitor compliance effectively, helping to protect commuters’ rights.

During tough economic times, every peso counts, and standardized discounts could alleviate some financial strain for these groups. Implementing a uniform discount policy could also stimulate the economy by increasing the purchasing power of these groups.

(You may send comments and reactions to feedback032020@gmail.com or text 0931-1057135.)