Metro Manila, Philippines – The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) will delay the start of the implementation of the surge pricing reduction for ride-hailing services or transport network vehicle service (TNVS) to Dec. 20 amid concerns from firms.
The LTFRB earlier ordered the temporary cut on additional rate TNVS may charge commuters during the Christmas holiday rush by Wednesday, Dec. 17.
In a news release on Wednesday, LTFRB chairperson Vigor Mendoza II said the agency understands the concerns raised by transport network companies (TNCs), which requested to give them more time for the fare adjustments.
“Additional time is necessary to complete the corresponding system configurations and operational adjustments to properly reflect the revised surge pricing cap, and to ensure adequate information dissemination to all affected drivers and other stakeholders on the combined effects of the said pricing adjustments,” Mendoza said.
Among those that made the request to the LTFRB was Grab Philippines, stressing the delay on the implementation was necessary for proper consultation and thorough orientation with Grab drivers, as well as technology configuration.
A group which calls itself TNVS Community Philippines earlier warned that the scheme may force more drivers to go offline during high-demand hours.
The LTFRB previously said the surge pricing cap will be effective until Jan. 4.
