Lawmaker wants LTFRB probed for suspending Uber

A lawmaker will file this week a resolution asking a House committee to probe why the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) suspended ride-sharing services company Uber from doing business.

 

Kabataan Partylist Rep. Terry Ridon, in a text message to GMA News Online on Monday, said he "will file an inquiry the soonest by the end of the week.

 

"I will file it for referral to the committee on Metro Manila development," he said.

 

In an emailed statement, Ridon said the LTFRB should reconsider its position on suspending the services of Uber.

 

"The LTFRB should reconsider its position on suspending the operations of Uber," he said, adding Uber offers a new level of convenience though it may be violating the law.

 

"Technology and government regulation need not clash with each other. LTFRB should find means for Uber to operate legally. It can, for example, explore the possibility of issuing special permits for Uber vehicles," Ridon said.

 

Commuters using the Uber app can hire a ride and choose the car type then pay via credit card. 

 

The company founded in 2009 is now present over 200 cities.

 

LTFRB has ruled Uber should be covered by a franchise, and has started going after Uber vehicles.

 

In an interview last week, LTFRB officer Dennis Bario said the fines for vehicles used in Uber's services are P120,000 for sedans and P200,000 for utility vehicles.

 

Seized vehicles will be impounded for at least three months by the Land Transportation Office.

 

A Toyata Fortuner was the first Uber vehicle apprehended by LTFRB.

 

The Metro Manila Development Authority, on the other hand, claimed Uber is not violating the Public Service Law.

 

MMDA chairman Francis Tolentio, in a statement posted on Twitter, said "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." – VS, GMA News