Group seeks uniform implementation of discounts in ride-hailing apps

The Coalition of Filipino Commuters (CFC) has called on the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to standardize the application of government-mandated discounts for students, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities (PWD) across all digital ride-hailing platforms or Transport Networking Companies (TNCs).

In a statement, CFC said that the call was made in response to mounting concerns from passengers as well as social media posts indicating that current ride-hailing services in the Philippines are implementing the mandated discounts in various means. 

The group claims that there are even some platforms which do not offer the discount on their apps altogether, which they say constitutes a flagrant violation of the law.

With this, CFC “underscores that the lack of standardization and oversight in discount implementation makes it more challenging for Filipino students, senior citizens, and PWD commuters to access the discount.”

“Furthermore, the inconsistency in the implementation not only hampers the intended financial relief but also complicates the verification process, potentially leading to fraudulent claims that could adversely affect driver earnings,” the group said.

“As digital ride-hailing continues to gain traction in the Philippines, the CFC emphasizes the urgent need for the LTFRB to scrutinize all ride-hailing platforms meticulously,” it said.

GMA News Online reached out to the LTFRB for comment, but no response has been received as of posting.

“By spearheading the standardization of discount applications, the LTFRB can ensure equitable access to mandated discounts and uphold the rights of Filipino commuters,” CFC said.

—VAL, GMA Integrated News