Uber still processing new applications despite suspension, says LTFRB

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Tuesday said Uber Philippines continue to ignore an order to suspend processing new applications.

"When I went to Uber, it was business as usual. Maraming tao, masyadong active 'yung lugar compared to Grab and so I was disappointed," LTFRB Board Member Aileen A. Lizada said in a press conference in Quezon City.

According to Lizada, she visited the office of Uber Philippines on Monday, July 17, where she saw that the Transport Network Company (TNC) continues to process new applications despite the suspension.

The LTFRB suspended the approval of new TNVS providers last year and the agency has yet to accept new applications.

"Where is your respect for the Board, Uber? What amount do you want to make you fully compliant?" she said.

Lizada said she also visited the headquarters of Grab Philippines, where she found that they complied and stopped processing applications.

"When I entered, I took shots — tahimik, walang tao, so I was happy. At least they were cooperating and they are complying," she said.

"At least for Grab I can say they are cooperating, they are compliant," she added.

Last week, Grab said it will no longer accept new vehicles to its platform starting Monday, July 17.

For its part, Uber Philippines said it will start deferring processing of applications starting Wednesday, July 19.

"As a sign of good faith, we will defer activation of new applications starting tomorrow. Our payment is also on its way to the LTFRB," Uber Philippines communications head Cat Avelino said in a text message.

"But please keep in mind that our riders will be most affected. And each day the suspension remains in place, hundreds of Filipinos will be prevented from earning an income," she added.

According to Avelino, a part of their applications are made up of overseas Filipinos who started driving for the TNC so they can be closer to their families.

"Six percent of new driver applications are seamen who just want to remain in the country to be with their families," she said. — BAP, GMA News