Solon seeks regulation of TNC, TNVS fare

Escudero lamented the absence of clear process of refund in cases of overcharging. #TNVSfare #TNCfare

A lawmaker has filed a bill that seeks to regulate the fare rates of transport network companies (TNCs) and transportation network vehicle service (TNVS).

Under House Bill 5748 filed by Deputy Speaker and Sorsogon Rep. Evelina Escudero, TNCs and TNVS will be subject to the full regulation and supervision by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), specifically the standardization of fare rates, system of refund in case of overcharging and adjustments of standardized fare rates.

The bill declares a policy of the State to protect and promote the right of all citizens to a safe, accessible and affordable means of transportation by regulating public transport services, specifically the fare rates of TNVS and TNCs.

Under the bill, the fare rates for TNVS shall be determined and adjusted by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) taking into consideration the type of the vehicle, year model, time of service and distance covered.

The LTFRB shall likewise provide for a system of refund in cases of overcharging by TNCs and TNVS.

In the bill’s explanatory note, Escudero lamented the absence of clear process of refund in cases of overcharging.

“Needless to state, it is submitted that this proposed measure can serve as a viable platform to discuss and deliberate with the end in view of sriking a reasonable balance between the rights and interests of the riding public, on one hand, and the various TNVS and TNCs, on the other hand ultimately arrive at the appropriate State policy to be taken and approved by Congress.”

Just recently, ride-hailing firm Grab said it will start reimbursing passengers who were overcharged this year.

In November, the Philippine Competition Commission fined Grab P23 million for breaching pricing commitments.

Just this month, the the agency fined Grab another P16.15 million for allegedly violating its commitments from May to August.