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Friday, March 29, 2024

Hasten Grab, Uber review, LTFRB told

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A HOUSE leader has called on the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board to act swiftly in reviewing the policies of transport network firms like Grab and Uber to strengthen existing measures and ensure the safety of passengers and protect them from exorbitant fare “surge” rates.

Camarines Sur Rep. LRay Villafuerte said Saturday the LTRFB should come up with a formula that would put a cap on the “surge” or higher pricing scheme done by Uber and Grab during rainy days and peak hours to protect passengers from being “virtually scammed” by these car booking companies.

“Their surge pricing makes them even worse than taxicab drivers who victimize hapless passengers by resorting to the ‘kontrata’ scheme during rush hours or rainy days.  The LTFRB should do something fast about the exorbitant rates charged by Uber and Grab during bad weather or peak traffic hours,” Villafuerte said. 

He added: “While we acknowledge that Grab, Uber and other online transportation network companies are filling the service gaps not being provided by taxis, they should be regulated and not end up copying the bad practices of some taxi operators and drivers who overcharge passengers during rush hours and rainy days.

“I understand Uber and Grab resort to surge pricing during peak hours and rainy days to encourage more drivers to go on the road, but the increase should be reasonable and should not take advantage of the desperation of their passengers to get a ride at times when they need it the most.”

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Villafuerte said the LTFRB should come up with measures to further tighten the screening procedures for drivers joining Grab, Uber and other car-booking firms to ensure the safety of passengers using these services.

“I’m happy to learn that the LTFRB is now reviewing its guidelines governing these companies before the onset of the holiday rush. But the LTFRB should do it sooner than later and immediately address the mounting complaints against Grab and Uber,” Villafuerte said.

He cited media reports stating that even LTFRB chairman  Martin Delgra III had a relative of his complaining about being charged P1,000 for a ride from Bonifacio Global City to Quezon City on a rainy day.

Villafuerte also noted complaints about untidy cars, arrogant, reckless drivers and even some who sexually harass their passengers.

“These are serious charges that require immediate action from the LTFRB. Passengers choose these car-booking firms because they want to be ensured of their safety. The LTFRB should come up with stringent measures to screen drivers joining Grab, Uber and other car-booking companies,” Villafuerte said.

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