LTFRB orders U-Hop to stop approving applications

THE LAND Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has ordered homegrown ridesharing service U-Hop to stop the activation of applications.

In a statement on Monday, the LTFRB reminded U-hop that the agency has not lifted the suspension on the acceptance and activation of applications for transport network vehicle service (TNVS) which was issued last July.

It added the suspension remains as the technical working group is still working to resolve issues with transport network companies ( TNCs) including Uber Philippines (Uber Systems, Inc.) and Grab Philippines (MyTaxi.PH, Inc.)

“LTFRB hereby directs U-Hop to stop the activation of its TNVS applicants the consequent use of the LTFRB logo on its Certificates of Accreditation without the latter’s permission,” the agency said.

LTFRB issued the advisory after U-Hop on its Facebook page announced the schedule of activation for applicants.

LTFRB Board Member Aileen Lourdes A. Lizada said in a mobile message that the agency will issue a show-cause order against U-Hop, before imposing any penalty.

In a July 11 order, the agency directed TNCs to stop the acceptance and/or accreditation of applications due to various issues surrounding the regulation of TNCs.

Uber Philippines was given a month- long suspension in August because of violation of the said order, and paid a fine of P190 million for the suspension to be lifted. -