A LAWMAKER is asking the heads of Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) for "compassion," saying the suspension of Uber should be lifted since the “riding public's suffering has clearly worsened.”
In a statement, Aangat Tayo Partylist Representative Neil Abayon said the LTFRB’s decision to suspend Uber and all its TNVS drivers was “disproportionate to its offense.”
Uber and its competitor Grab are classified in the Philippines as transport network vehicle service (TNVS).
“LTFRB, impose whatever fine you deem necessary, but it must also also follow the rule of proportionality which is grounded on fairness,” Abayon said.
To recall, LTFRB on August 14 slapped Uber with one-month suspension following its alleged “predatory actions.”
According to Abayon, high demand and limited supply of TNVS units has led to the high rates on the remaining similar operators.
“The riding public on Grab's network has had to endure high rates as a result of Uber's suspension,” Abayon said.
“LTFRB must educate itself, change its mindset, and become developmental instead or punitive. Just because LTFRB has the law on its side does not mean it must rule with an iron fist. Compassion, LTFRB. Compassion,” he added.
Compel LTFRB officials to commute
Meanwhile, Leyte Representative Henry Ong has filed a bill requiring all LTFRB officials and employees to commute via public transport at least once a week during weekday rush hours.
“Public servants without empathy do not deserve to serve in the LTFRB,” Ong said.
Under the bill, it will be “the duty of every LTFRB public servant to ride public transport” during rush hours once a week during weekdays, with punishments ranging from suspension to dismissal from the service for non-compliance.
“The personal, first-hand experience of riding public transportation will enable LTFRB officials and employees to gain better perspectives in aid of rendering judgments and crafting policies,” Ong said.(SunStar Philippines)