LTFRB probes Move It over alleged rider cap violation

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Tuesday said it is investigating a motorcycle taxi company Move It for allegedly allowing more riders to register on its platform than the number authorized by the agency.

In its press release, the LTFRB did not identify the motorcycle taxi platform provider, saying it was constrained from disclosing details of the investigation because legal proceedings were still ongoing.

“The LTFRB is constrained to do so in the interest of due process as the legal proceedings are still considered ongoing,” it said in a statement.

“As such, the decision issued by the LTFRB on the matter is not yet final as there is a pending Motion for Reconsideration filed by the concerned motorcycle taxi platform provider,” it added.

The LTFRB reportedly imposed a fine on Move It for exceeding its authorized rider cap.

In a separate statement, Move It said it had received the LTFRB's preliminary decision imposing a penalty on the platform over its rider allocation.

“After thoroughly reviewing the decision and its implications for the industry, we have filed a motion for reconsideration and are engaging the Board through the proper process as it is reviewed,” the motorcycle taxi platform said.

“We respect the Board’s authority, and we remain committed to working toward a sustainable and adaptive regulatory framework for motorcycle taxis,” it added.

In explaining its position, Move It said it viewed rider allocation as “a dynamic measure of live, on-demand supply.”

The company said the gig economy was built on flexibility, with riders going online and offline throughout the day depending on their individual schedules.

“Because of this natural fluidity, maintaining continuous supply for commuters means monitoring the number of riders who are actively online and ready to accept trips at any given moment, especially during peak rush hours,” Move It said.

Meanwhile, the LTFRB said it was focused on addressing the plight of thousands of riders who were allowed to operate beyond the authorized limit and had invested their own resources to earn a living.

It said the riders acted in good faith, believing they were authorized to operate under existing rules and regulations.

“The LTFRB is currently crafting measures in dealing with this sensitive issue in relation to the affected riders, while ensuring that the online boarding system of ride-hailing services is strictly complying with the government’s regulations,” it said.

“The LTFRB assures the public of continuously working for the welfare and interest of not only of the millions of Filipino commuters but also of those in the public transport and service sector,” it added.

Move It also said it would continue working closely with the LTFRB and other regulators to protect its riders' livelihoods.

“To our commuters, we know how much you rely on us to get where you need to go, especially with the holiday rush fast approaching. We will keep working with regulators to make sure we continue serving you when you need us most,” the motorcycle taxi firm said.— MCG, GMA News

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