The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) is set to deploy “mystery riders” on transport network vehicle services (TNVS) following complaints of overcharging passengers.
This was after the LTFRB on Thursday warned Transport Network Companies (TNCs) of excessive fares amid complaints from passengers.
Based on a complaint submitted to the board, it was found that a TNC was charging as much as P1,000 representing a one-way ride due to what is called a “Priority Boarding Fee.”
The LTFRB is currently investigating the said complaint.
Under Memorandum Circular No. 2019-036, the fares for the TNVS are supposed to be a P40 flag-down rate for sedan-type TNVS, with P15 fare per kilometer and P2.00 per minute travel fare.
For Premium AUV/SUVs, the flag-down rate is at P50 with P18 per kilometer fare and P2 per minute travel, while Hatchback or Sub-compact type TNVS have a P30 flag-down rate with P13 per kilometer fare rate and P2.per minute travel fare.
A surge rate of double the sum of fare per kilometer and per minute travel is applicable for all types of TNVS.
The agency has already written to all TNCs warning them against imposing excessive fares, contrary to current guidelines on TNVS fares.
On May 24, the LTFRB wrote warning letters to E-pick Me Up, Ipara, Joy Ride, My Taxi PH (Grab), and Cloud Panda, who are all accredited TNCs.
The agency reminded the TNCs that based on MC No. 2015-016-A, or the Terms and Conditions of a Certificate of Transportation Network Company, TNCs are required to make the rate structure transparent before the potential passenger confirms the ride.
The LTFRB said it intends to deploy mystery riders in the next few days to check on the compliance of the TNCs and TNVS operators on the proper fare structure and the terms and conditions of the MC.
Any TNC and/or TNVS caught violating the terms and conditions of the MC shall be subject to fines and penalties stated in the Joint Administrative Order 2014-01.
The riding public is urged to report any irregularities they experience with ride-hailing platforms through the LTFRB hotline at 1342 or through its Facebook page.