Manila, Philippines — Transportation Secretary Giovanni “Banoy” Lopez has ordered the immediate suspension of onboarding for new drivers and riders under Transport Network Companies (TNCs) and Motorcycle Taxi Platform Providers (MTPPs), following findings that some firms have exceeded the prescribed maximum number of accredited personnel.
According to the secretary, the directive comes after the President called for an investigation into alleged abuses by certain companies, which reportedly led to the rise of so-called “tempo drivers,” or those who are not fully registered.
In a memorandum, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) instructed the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to stop the onboarding of new Transport Network Vehicle Service (TNVS) and motorcycle taxi riders, except for those with valid and existing franchises.
Lopez emphasized the need to immediately fix the system to protect the welfare of drivers and riders, adding that the onboarding process must be legal and properly regulated.
The directive also prohibits on-the-spot and same-day onboarding activities without prior approval from the LTFRB.
Meanwhile, the DOTr is studying possible fines and other penalties for companies found to have violated the set onboarding limits.