LTFRB approves Uber as transport network company

MANILA, Philippines – Philippine transport authorities on Wednesday, August 19, authorized US-based Uber as the second company in the Philippines to operate under new rules governing application-based ride-sharing service providers.

This was after the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) reminded Uber to secure government accreditation as a transportation network company (TNC) to legalize its operations in the Philippines.

Uber filed for accreditation only on Monday, August 17. (READ: Uber files for accreditation with PH gov’t)

“Today, LTFRB approved Uber’s Application for Accreditation as TNC; Uber partners may now file their Application for Franchise for TNVS (transportation network vehicle service),” LTFRB Chairman Winston Ginez said in his Twitter account.

Operators of Uber will have to register with the LTFRB, pay a filing fee of at least P520 ($11.23), and secure the franchise or provisional authority.

GrabCar secured its accreditation as TNC in July. (READ: GrabCar becomes Philippines’ first authorized ride-sharing app)

It was in May when LTFRB and the Transportation department issued guidelines for companies operating offering online private vehicle booking services.

Partner vehicles of TNCs need to secure a certificate of public convenience from the LTFRB to ensure accountability.

Starting Friday, August 21, unregistered private cars operating as public utility vehicles will be fined P200,000 ($4,300) and be impounded for 3 months. (READ: LTFRB to start unregistered Uber, GrabCar clampdown)  – Rappler.com

$1 = P46.29