LTFRB Stops App-Based Motorbike Services

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board on Thursday has ordered transport network vehicle services (TNVS) to stop offering motorcycles as mode of transport for commuters.

LTFRB on Thursday issued an order to GrabBike, Inc. to cease from offering to the public the use of motorcycles or any similar vehicle until further orders.

GrabBike was also ordered to submit a written report to the Board on their compliance within 24 hours from receipt of the order.

On Jan. 26, the Board urged transport network company (TNC) MyTaxi.Ph to stop offering the public the motorcycle service although the latter later replied explaining that MyTaxi.Ph operated separately from GrabBike, Inc.

The Committee on Transportation of the House of Representatives meanwhile conducted a congressional meeting on Monday which tackled the use of such services.

During the proceedings, Grab company Vice President Nina Teng admitted that GrabBike operates without any authority and vowed to accede to any directive that may be issued for or against bike services.

GrabBike, however, pointed out that its motorcycle services will only stop upon its receipt of the LTFRB’s order.

For his part, LTFRB board member Atty. Ariel Inton urged GrabBike and independent motorcycle owners to stop the service.

“We hope GrabBike will make good its promise to accede to the cease and desist order issued by the Board,” Inton said.

“Also, we appeal to those independent motorcycle owners who also offer their vehicles for hire to stop even if they are not affiliated with GrabBike. Otherwise they will be apprehended and penalized.”

The Board also maintained that it will not tolerate the use of motorcycles as public vehicles unless guidelines authorizing the service are released.

GrabBike on its various social media accounts announced Thursday afternoon that it will be “temporarily” stopping operations but remained firm in is stand that app-based motorcycle service is a solution to transport problems.

“We stand firmly on our belief that we have created an innovative solution to the country’s transportation problem and we are working towards finding a way to continue providing it to the community,” Grab said.

The company also expressed hope that the authorities will come up with a favorable decision regarding the possible regulations on the service.

“We’ve done this before with the support of our loyal Grabbers and we hope to be able to do it again with GrabBike,” it further said. (PNA) BNB/ANP