Let’s move on and help improve the country’s state of public transport
Just as we thought that Uber could not stomach that hefty Php 190 million fine…well, our favorite ride-hailing app is not backing down with the fight for better commuting options for Filipinos.
As reported by ABS-CBN News, Uber has paid the Php 190M fine this afternoon with a manager’s check:
JUST IN: Uber pays P190 million penalty to LTFRB this Tuesday | via @DorisBigornia pic.twitter.com/7kCMakyrGZ
— ABS-CBN News (@ABSCBNNews) August 29, 2017
With this recent development, Uber may resume its operations as soon as possible after paying the fine and the Php299.24 million in compensation for its partner-drivers. That totals to almost half a billion Pesos that Uber paid to LTFRB, and proof that they want to lessen the sufferings of Filipinos who have to deal with unsafe and arrogant taxi drivers and public utility buses.
Now that  LTFRB has allowed 36,000 of Uber’s partner drivers to resume operations, the battle is far from over. While the LTFRB is still not convinced at Transportation Network Companies (TNCs) in general, we are hoping that they become more open-minded and understanding of the commuting public when it comes to having safer options for commuting. To LTFRB Chairman Atty. Martin Delgra III: we urge you to make good of the Php 190 Million you have received from Uber in improving public transportation. What the public is asking from you is very simple, and we don’t deserve to have more taxis in the Metro; instead, we deserve a fair, safe, and reliable means of public transportation.
Also when it comes to rules, please do remember that it is 2017. A lot of things have changed, and we do think that you guys should revisit laws to make them more relevant in the present time. Don’t ever tell Uber and Grab to leave because they can’t follow your rules; instead, LTFRB should hold a public forum together with groups like Uber and Grab to discuss how you guys can help improve the state of public transport in the Philippines. Also, do listen to all those sentiments in social media; regardless if it is negative or positive feedback, you should keep your ears open to improving as a government agency.
LTFRB, the ball is now in your hands. We expect much more from you as a government agency.
Source: ABS-CBN News and Inquirer
