LTFRB: We did not authorize any increase in MC Taxi rider cap allocation

The Land Transportation and Regulatory Board Technical Working Group (LTFRB-TWG), through a statement, confirmed that they did not authorize any increase in rider cap allocation among participants in the Motorcycle Taxi Pilot study.

“As far as the Motorcycle Taxi Technical Working Group (MC Taxi TWG) is concerned, it has not authorized any increase in rider cap allocation and/or change in rider distribution among the MC Taxi Pilot Study participants,” it said.

‘Per official pronouncement of the MC Taxi TWG dated 14 February 2020, the final list of riders allowed to operate in Metro Manila for each of the Pilot Study Participants are as follows: Angkas with 23,164, Joyride with 15,000, and Move It at 6,836”, the LTFRB group said.

A motorcycle taxi hailing app recently acquired by foreign-owned Grab Philippines has unveiled its ambitious strategy to expand its presence in Metro Manila by increasing its number of riders to 15,000. The announcement was made by General Manager Wayne Jacinto last week.

The third player in the MC Taxi Pilot Study has been no stranger to controversy since Singaporean company Grab Philippines acquired 99% of its operations.

The Lawyers for Commuter Safety and Protection (LCSP) has accused Grab Philippines of engaging in a “backdoor entry” into the government’s motorcycle taxi program through the acquisition of the said MC taxi app.

LCSP founder Ariel Inton clarified that their group does not oppose the entry of new players in the industry, but emphasized that it should be done after the government’s pilot study concludes and establishes proper rules and regulations.

The LTFRB TWG said they have yet to decide whether Grab’s latest MC Taxi company will face sanctions for the unauthorized increase in rider cap allocation. They will include the matter in the agenda of their next meeting.