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MANILA, Philippines- After apprehending an Uber unit in a sting operation conducted on Wednesday, October 22, the Land Transportation and Franchising Regulatory Board (LTFRB) announced that the techie transportation service is not authorised to operate in the Philippines.
LTFRB chairman Winston Ginez stressed that Uber transportation services are just like “colorum” units which operate without a franchise.
Following a complaint filed by Philippine National Taxi Operators Association against Uber, a Fortuner unit was fined P200,000 by the LFTRB because it did not have a franchise to operate as a public vehicle.
In an interview with DZMM on Friday, Ginez explained:
“Walang accountability sa government ang mga private vehicles na ito. Ibig sabihin, dahil wala silang franchise, then they are not bound by the conditions ng mga taxi licenses. For example, our requirement na accident liability insurance.”
He added that passengers using the service will not be protected by the government since Uber is not under LTFRB.
Uber, an online transportation service available in Makati and Ortigas, allows passengers to connect with drivers of private vehicles for hire and carpooling services.
Through Uber system, commuters can reserve vehicles by sending a text message or using the mobile app. Within 10 minutes, the vehicles will arrive.
With operations in 45 countries, Uber launched its services in the Philippines last March. Its service vehicles include Mitsubishi Montero, Toyota Fortuner, Toyota Camry, and Hummer units.
MMDA: “Allow Uber vehicles to operate”
Meanwhile, the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) urged LTFRB not to suspend Uber and other similar transport services since it helps in easing up the traffic congestion in the Metro.
MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino also stressed that the Uber service not only gives passengers option but also provides safety, convenience, and comfort for its passengers.
“The muscle of the law and the procedural and technical arms of government agencies alone cannot resolve the lack of alternate means of transportation problem. They can only increase apprehension records. Uber or hybrid carpooling is a well-meaning technology-driven effort intended for public safety and convenience that’s why people are patronizing it. We cannot curtail their mobility rights. This is similar to private bridal cars and private ambulances for rent which is a private transaction between the rider and the owner of the vehicle,” he said.
