Palace supports LTFRB’s one-month suspension of Uber operations

FILE PHOTO/Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella (PNA Photo)

MANILA — Malacañang on Tuesday supported the decision of the Land Transportation and Franchising Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to suspend the operations of Uber Systems Inc. for one month, while at the same time expressing hope that the issue between the government agency and the transport network company could be resolved soon for the benefit of the riding public.

At a Palace briefing, Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said that while the government appreciates the benefits provided by transport network companies (TNCs) like Uber, it also has to support the mandate of the LTFRB to regulate public transport services.

On Monday, the LTFRB suspended the accreditation of Uber for a month after it found that the company continued to accept additional accreditation of transport network vehicle service (TNVS) and/or activation of accounts despite the agency’s order.

“The issue here is striking a balance between innovation and laws and regulations that LTFRB has to implement as part of its administrative function in regulating common carriers,” he said.

“We affirm the positive and beneficial service offered by the TNCs. However, as per LTFRB, Uber Systems unduly challenged its rules and instructions. The Palace understands the situation and therefore, will support LTFRB,” Abella said.

The Palace official said that it also respects the suggestions coming from lawmakers, particularly from Senator Grace Poe, that Uber should be just sanctioned with additional fines rather than suspend its operations given the large impact on commuters.

“Well, I suppose Ms. Poe’s comment has its own merit. However, we do need to understand that the one in charge is LTFRB and we go by that,” Abella said.

However, Abella stressed that Malacañang is hoping that the issue between LTFRB and Uber could be resolved soon for the benefit of the riding public.

“We do empathize with the traveling public. It affects everyone, including us at times. That’s exactly why we wish that the LTFRB and the Uber situation should be addressed and it should be resolved as soon as possible and ease the traveling situation, especially in the national capital region,” Abella said. (PNA)