In an implied admission of its inability to improve public transport systems in the metropolis, the Department of Transportation (DOTr), through the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), approved the operations of 14 new ride-hailing transport systems for the growing number of commuters and in time for the school opening this week and in early August.
LTFRB chair Atty. Teofilo Guadiz II, who earlier fought hard with the merger of Move It with Grab in the latter’s expansion bid to serve more commuters in Metro Manila, is now opening the door for more ride-hailing transport networks “to increase market competition and enhance commuter services.”
Guadiz said the move is intended to advance the agency’s mandate to benefit the public with improved transportation options. The addition of these new TNCs is part of the LTFRB’s strategy to increase market competition and enhance commuter services.
The newly- accredited TNCs are: PureRide Corporation and 13 other companies: UNLA LA Corporation, Leggo Information Technology Solutions, Aztech Solution International Corp., Metrohills Transport Association Inc., Hail Transport Inc., Angkas Technologies, GoCab Corp., Unified Transport Operations League Corp., Peek Up Philippines Corporation, Get Express Global Corporation, Para Xpress Technology Services Inc., Taxsee Philippines Inc., and RL Soft Corporation.
LTFRB has also renewed the accreditation of existing TNCs Joyride E-Commerce, Cloud Panda PH, Inc., E-Pick Me Up Inc., Hirna Mobility Solutions, Inc., and Grab.
DoTr Secretary Jaime Bautista emphasized the importance of a competitive ride-hailing market in providing safe and affordable transportation options. Guadiz confirmed that the LTFRB will continue to implement policies supporting the ride-hailing sector’s growth and compliance with regulations.
“The LTFRB remains committed to ensuring a safe and efficient public transportation system,” Guadiz said.
The LTFRB also released Transport Network Vehicle Service (TNVS) slots to support the expanding ride-hailing market.
"This initiative underscores our commitment to fostering a competitive environment that prioritizes commuter welfare and accessibility," Guadiz said.
Bautista stressed the need for a diversified and competitive ride-hailing market in order to provide safe, reliable, and affordable transportation options for all Filipinos.
Consistent with this, Guadiz said the LTFRB "will continue to implement policies and programs that support the growth and improvement of the ride-hailing industry."
"The LTFRB remains committed to its mission of ensuring a safe, efficient, and accessible public transportation system," Guadiz stated.
He said the accreditation of TNCs is the first step as he reiterated the need to work with all the players to ensure that they comply with government rules and regulations that govern ride-hailing companies.
"We will continue to work closely with all accredited TNCs to monitor compliance with our regulations and to ensure that the riding public receives the highest quality of service."