TNVS drivers worry over LTFRB plan to open 100,000 franchises

Transport-network-vehicle-service drivers are worried that the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board's plan to open 100,000 TNVS franchises would affect demand and their ability to make a living.

The LABAN TNVS movement said in Joseph Morong's Sunday "24 Oras Weekend" report that the LTFRB plan would add too many drivers even as demand waned, as seen during the holiday season.

"Nagrereklamo na po ang mga TNVS dahil, dahil, siyempre, bumaba ang demand ngayon. So marami pa rin ang nasa kalsada kaya lumiit talaga ang kanilang kita. Maghahati-hati sila doon sa demand," said LABAN TNVS President Jun de Leon.

(TNVS drivers are complaining because, of course, demand is weak right now. There are a lot of them out on the streets, that's why they are making less money. They have to split that demand among themselves.)

However, LTFRB Chairman Teofilo Guadiz III said that their plan would not flood the market with TNVS drivers because the earlier opened 45,000 motorcycle and 4,000 car franchises were part of the 100,000 new franchises.

Additionally, the new franchises were not only for Metro Manila, but also for Cebu, Davao, and other areas.

"Since this is still a pilot study, if there would be an oversupply, then we will reduce the number eventually. If, however, there is a lack of supply, we will increase the number proportionately," explained Guadiz.

The planned increase in TNVS franchises comes after a meeting between President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. and Grab Philippines during which the ride-hailing firm pledged to make investments that would create 500,000 new jobs.  

"[The planned opening of 100,000 franchises] is in compliance with the directive of the President na taasan ng [transport network company] because of the perceived na panganagilangan ng mga tao," said Guadiz.

(This is in compliance with the directive of the President to increase the TNC because of the perceived public need.) — DVM, GMA Integrated News