The TNVS Community Philippines has expressed strong concern over a new memorandum circular issued by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) that reduces the surge pricing cap for ride-hailing services during the holiday season, a period known for heavy traffic and high commuter demand.
In a statement released by the group’s spokesperson Lisza Redulla, surge or dynamic pricing is a core component of the TNVS fare structure as it reflects the realities of on-demand transportation — fluctuating demand levels, traffic conditions, pickup distances, and varying operating costs throughout the day.
The community warned that the sudden reduction of the surge cap directly threatens drivers’ earnings at a time when fuel prices are elevated and road congestion is at its worst. They emphasized that surge fees serve as a mechanism to ensure fair compensation when trips become longer and more difficult due to traffic and peak-hour demand.
They argue that lowering surge rates during periods of high demand could push more drivers to go offline because the pay would no longer be worth the time, effort, and cost. This, they say, would ultimately make it harder for commuters to book rides during peak hours.
The group also noted that the LTFRB previously met with TNVS representatives and mentioned possible “compensatory adjustments,” including a potential increase in pickup fares. “Nagtatanong lang kami: nasaan na po iyon?” the community asked.
“Ang pagiging patas ay hindi lang dapat para sa commuter. Dapat patas din para sa drivers na araw-araw lumalaban sa kalsada. Handa kaming makipag-usap at makipagtulungan, pero sana ang anumang mga pagbabago sa pamasahe ay dumaan sa malinaw na konsultasyon at magbunga ng patas na solusyon para sa lahat,” the drivers said.
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