TNVS drivers question fare, commission claims

MANILA, Philippines —  Transport Network Vehicle Service (TNVS) drivers questioned claims on fare implementation and raised concerns over commissions charged by transport network companies or TNC.

TNVS Community Philippines chairman Walter Lugay disputed the claim that the prescribed P15-per-kilometer pickup fare had been implemented, saying the amount reflected for drivers was fixed at P15, regardless of the actual pickup distance.

“If the rate is set at P15 per kilometer, it shouldn’t just be a flat P15 rate regardless of the pickup distance. Every kilometer matters to the driver because we shoulder the cost of fuel and time even before the actual trip begins,” Lugay pointed out.

During a hearing at the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board, a TNC told the LTFRB that it had complied with the fare adjustment and the required pickup fare as ordered.

Aside from the pickup fare, Lugay called for greater transparency on how much the TNCs collect from every booking and the amount that ultimately reaches drivers.

“We are not saying the platform doesn’t have the right to earn a profit. However, the process must be clear and fair. If commission rates fluctuate and are excessively high, the driver needs to understand how they are calculated and why such a large amount is being deducted from their earnings,” Lugay said.

Drivers have previously raised issues involving overboarding and unauthorized or so-called “tempo” operations, commissions and deductions as well as suspension or deactivation practices. 

Lugay said there is a need to examine platform compliance and accountability across the TNVS industry.