MANILA, Philippines - An official of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Thursday reminded operators of online transport service companies, such as Uber taxi and GrabCar, that the board has yet to give them franchises.
Board member Ariel Inton said LTFRB has only given Transportation Network Vehicle Service (TNVS) a provisional authority which only is effective for 45 days.
Inton issued the warning after complaints against some TNVS unit drivers who have been accused of overcharging their passengers while booking for a ride.
"These TNVS companies should be reminded that what the LTFRB issued to them is only provisional authority. I have yet to see and sign a franchise for them," Inton said.
A provisional authority to operate expires after 45 days upon issuance, Inton said.
He also appealed to Uber and GrabCar not to allow the complaints to get out of hand.
"With Chairman Winston Gines moves to investigate into the complaints, I will treat these complaints as the regular case of contracting passengers just like with regular taxi services," Inton said.