DOTr orders LTFRB to allow hatchbacks as TNVS

Department of Transportation (DOTr) on Thursday ordered the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to implement a 2018 memorandum circular allowing hatchback units to operate as public transport or Transport Network Vehicle Service (TNVS).

Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade has instructed the LTFRB to implement LTFRB Memorandum Circular (MC) No. 2018-005.

All accredited hatchback units are allowed to operate as public transport during a transition period of three years, charging lower fares, and only in Metro Manila, according to the memo.

“However, only hatchback units that were among the 55,000 units in the masterlist and whose applications were filed from March 5 to December 15, 2018 are entitled to the benefit granted by MC 2018-005,” the DOTr said in a statement.

Tugade gave the instruction after hearing relevant transport officials and stakeholders explain what has been happening.

“Implement the existing MC until such time that the same is modified and/or amended,” the Transport chief said.

“Kung kailangang baguhin ang ilang dokumento, baguhin. Kung kailangang i-improve, dapat i-improve,” the Cabinet official said.

Transportation Undersecretary for Road Transport and Infrastructure Mark Richmund de Leon said the LTFRB will have to amend the memo permanently classify hatchbacks as TNVS units, and to re-enlist TNVS units that were previously removed from the masterlist.

“In bigger metropolitan areas like London and Tokyo, hatchbacks are allowed to operate as public transport. If first world countries and cities allow it, why can’t we? These vehicles are more fuel-efficient and, thus, are good for the environment,” De Leon said.

Including hatchbacks as part of the TNVS fleet will greatly benefit the commuting public, the Transport official said.

“We are giving the commuters their transport options. Kung gusto niya na mas mura ang biyahe niya, mag-hatchback siya,” De Leon said.

De Leon clarified that TNVS units previously delisted should be given priority to re-enlist under the masterlist.

“Dapat bigyan ng priority iyong mga natanggal sa listahan dahil ‘yan ay ‘yung mga nakapag-invest na sa serbisyo. Mag-open tayo ng additional slots pero ‘wag natin pabayaan ‘yung mga natanggal sa listahan dati,” he said.

“Lahat ito, binabalanse at inaayos natin para sa kapakanan ng mga commuter. Secretary Tugade wants to make sure that transactions with government agencies will be easier, faster, and more efficient. That is why we are continuously coordinating with TNCs and other stakeholders to help us improve the system,” De Leon added. —VDS, GMA News