LTFRB to issue more franchises to TNVS applicants

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) will issue more franchises to the 100,000 transport network vehicle service (TNVS) applicants.

The Board said that the move is aimed at meeting public transportation needs of commuters in Metro Manila.

According to LTFRB chairman Atty. Teofilo Guadiz III, only 100,000 vehicles registered with Grab will be granted the said franchise.

However, Guadiz said that should the said number still be insufficient, the agency will increase it based on the needs of the passengers.

The LTFRB announcement came after the reported investment pledge" from the transport network company that could generate 500,000 more jobs in the country.

“500,000 new jobs with the creation of 100,000 motor vehicles both in four-wheeled and motorcycle taxis. But 100,000 is the initial, hindi naman natin bibiglain lahat 'yan (we won't give it all) to prevent saturation in the market,” Guadiz.

“So initially, 100,000 and increasing further in three-months’ time. We may increase the number until such time that the number of TNVS matches the needs of the riding public," the LTFRB chair added.

In addition, Guadiz mentioned that the agency will also try to grant franchise to some other motor vehicles in Bacolod, Iloilo, Cebu, and Davao.

He said the agency will release two memorandum circulars that contain rules and other qualifications for drivers.

“Normal qualifications lang naman 'yon. Una, Professional Driver's License at pangalawa, seminar of 15 hours (Those are just normal qualifications. First, Professional Driver's License and second, seminar of 15 hours). The seminar is more on road safety to ensure that there would be minimal accidents on the road, especially motorcycle taxis,” Guadiz explained.

Further, He said the LTFRB believes that granting more franchises will help provide a wider service to the public.

Carmudi Philippines reported in April last year that Grab is asking the Board to open up more slots for TNVS applicants despite the nearly 8,000 openings made.

Photos from Grab, Ruben D. Manahan IV

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