Poe files bill setting guidelines for Grab, Uber, other TNCs

Senator Grace Poe has filed a bill that would set guidelines and standards for the operation of Grab, Uber, and other Transport Network Companies (TNCs).

The bill was filed following the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulation’s (LTFRB) order to apprehend Grab and Uber drivers operating their vehicles without the necessary permits.

In a meeting organized by Senator JV Ejercito, vice chair of the Senate public services committee, on Wednesday the LTFRB allowed Grab and Uber to file a motion for reconsideration on the order that would be in effect by July 26.

“This author believes that congressional action is needed to resolve the impasse regarding the legal and regulatory status of TNVS (Transportation Network Vehicle Services) in the country,” Poe said in Senate Bill No. 1051.

Under the proposal, persons and organizations shall not be allowed to operate a TNC without obtaining a permit from the LTFRB. The permits shall be renewable every two years.

The LTFRB may deny, limit, suspend or revoke an application for a permit if the TNC makes a material misrepresentation, fails to comply with the provisions of the proposed law, fails to cooperate with the Board, or violates any other law that relates to the operation of TNCs.

It mandates TNCs to maintain an updated database of its drivers, conduct a safety inspection of vehicles, and adopt a vehicle safety policy to ensure the comfort and security of passengers.

Vehicles must not have a seating capacity of more than 10 persons, and not be more than seven years old from the date of manufacture.

The proposal likewise prohibits street hails and accepting cash payments or tips over and above the fare calculated by the TNC’s service platform.

A similar proposal filed by Senator Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino IV has been pending with Poe’s committee since August 2016. —NB, GMA News