TNVS operators try to beat 1,000 daily quota at LTFRB despite heavy rain

Despite the heavy rain on Thursday, a long queue of Transport Network Vehicle Services (TNVS) operators queued outside the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) office in Quezon City so they can have their respective franchises renewed.

In a report by Saleema Refran on GMA News’ Balitanghali, the drivers and operators refused to give up their slots in line as the LTFRB is accommodating only 1,000 TNVS operators per day.

Many of those who did not make the cut-off Wednesday spent the night on the sidewalk just to secure a slot the next day.

“Pangatlo ko nang araw na ganito, pababalikan naman bukas. Kaya kanina, nag-usap kami, ‘Eh kung ngayon na kaya natin umpisahan ang pila para bukas?’” TNVS operator Jordan Bersa said.

The LTFRB reportedly did not acknowledge the effort right away, and allegedly even tried to turn them away, but eventually opened 500 more slots to accommodate the operators who waited overnight.   

An official was seen talking to the operators, saying that the LTFRB must stick to the quota.

“May quota lang kasi tayo na kailangan i-accomodate para ma-settle lahat. Kasi once na meron tayong 1,000, yung 1,000 na ‘yun isa-isa nating tatapusin …” Ryan Salvador of the LTFRB’s Public Assistance & Complaint Desk said.

“Ang amin, at least, give consideration dun sa mga na cut-off dahil umuulan nga. We understand na ayaw nilang umaalis. We’re just following orders na 1,000 ang cut-off,” he added.

The quota rule is a burden to operators like Virgilio Hibaya, who became emotional after failing to have his franchise renewed during in the three consecutive days he tried.

“Mahirap, pababalik-balik. Lalo na, tag-ulan. Mga misis namin nag-du-duda na. Tatlong araw kaming pabalik-balik,” the driver said.   

Refran noted the LTFRB plans to increase the daily quota to 1,500 starting Friday.

Friday’s new cut-off does not cover new applicants and those with scheduled appointments. —Margaret Claire Layug/VDS, GMA News