Sen. Bam Aquino stressed that the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board’s decision to suspend Uber by one month is like punishing the riding public and the drivers who are earning from its operation.

 “By suspending the operation of Uber, they are penalizing the riders and the drivers,” Sen. Bam said in a radio interview.

 “If they wanted to penalize Uber, the LTFRB could have issued a fine. Instead, they suspend operations leaving the commuters with less options,” added Sen. Bam. “Suspending Uber will hurt the riding public more than the company itself”.

During a previous Senate hearing on the issue of transport network vehicle services (TNVS), Sen. Bam thought the issue was ironed out and a consensus was reached between the LTFRB and transportation network companies (TNC)

“I thought we were all on the same page to put our commuters first and to create a new regulatory framework for TNVS and taxis,” said Sen. Bam.

During the said hearing, Sen. Bam urged the LTFRB to prioritize the safety and commuting experience of the riding public and look out for the welfare of drivers of public utility vehicles.

 Sen. Bam stressed the need to develop a brand-new regulatory framework which govern transportation network companies (TNC), TNVS and even taxis.

 Sen. Bam, who filed Senate Bill No. 696 or the Rideshare Support Company, which aims to promote and encourage new, affordable and safe transportation options for the commuting public, like Uber and Grab.

The measure seeks to clarify regulations governing Transportation Network Companies, or Rideshare Support Companies (RSCs), as well as Rideshare Network Drivers and Vehicles.

 “In any industry, increased competition often leads to improved quality, improved service, and lower prices for consumers. For the commuting public, this is a change they have long clamored for,” said Sen. Bam.

 Once approved, RSCs must obtain certificate of accreditation from LTFRB before getting an authority to onboard qualified Rideshare Network Driver (RND) after a thorough background check and submission of pertinent documents.

Qualified RNDs must also have a minimum P200,000 per passenger personal accident insurance by licensed Philippine insurer.