TNVS group decries move to regulate surge fees
MANILA, Philippines — A Transport Network Vehicle Service (TNVS) group raised concern with the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board’s (LTFRB) move to regular surge prices amid the holiday season, calling it unfair for drivers.
The LTFRB has issued a temporary way of computing for surge fees amid the Christmas rush, reasoning that there were no clear guidelines before.
The group, which calls itself the TNVS Community Philippines, warned that capping price surges could hurt both drivers and operators.
Its spokesperson, Lisza Redulla — who gained popularity as a female Grab driver after leaving her regular job — said that surge pricing reflects the real conditions of transport operations, including traffic, pick-up distances and rising operating costs.
The sudden reduction in surges may threaten drivers' earnings, especially amid high gas prices and road congestion.
Surge fares offer fair compensation for longer trips made more difficult by traffic and peak hours.
Lowering surge rates may discourage drivers from going online, making it harder for commuters to get a ride during rush hours.
Traffic congestion has worsened during the holiday rush, with some gridlocks lasting several hours. The LTFRB had earlier set rules penalizing drivers who unjustly cancel on their passengers.
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