DILIMAN, Quezon City — Following confirmation of a provisional fare increase for utility jeepney bfore the year end and for the distribution of cash card to the drivers, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has announced that will issue a circular by the end of January to standardize the implementation of special discounts for students, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and senior citizens across ride-hailing platforms in the country.

LTFRB chairman Teofilo Guadiz lll made this announcement during a recent Senate committee on public services hearing led by administration senator Rafael 'Raffy' Tulfo, where Guadiz explained that the initiative aims to resolve inconsistencies stemming from conflicting memoranda previously issued, which have led to uneven application of discounts by Transport Network Companies (TNCs).

The LTFRB chief acknowledged lapses in the current system and assured the public that the forthcoming guidelines would address the said gaps.

"As of now, we have to admit there is no legislation specifying how the cost of these discounts should be distributed. This is an oversight on our part, and we apologize for it. However, we are committed to rectifying this by the end of this month. Rest assured, we will ensure the proper implementation of these guidelines," he asserted.

Under the forthcoming memorandum, TNCs and operators will be designated as the primary entities responsible for shouldering the costs of these special discounts.

"This provision aims to protect drivers from bearing the financial burden, ensuring that the discounts are implemented equitably and efficiently," Guadiz pointed out.

In reaction, Grab Philippines welcomed the LTFRB's move with the compsny's head of public affairs, Gio Tingson, expressing support.
"Grab has consistently backed initiatives to provide proper discounts to passengers while supporting government efforts to enhance public transportation policies. We appreciate the LTFRB's leadership and Sen. Tulfo's efforts in finalizing these guidelines," Tingson cited.

The development was also commended by the Coalition of Filipino Commuters, whose chairman, Ira Panganiban, highlighted the importance of standardization in ensuring compliance and fairness for commuters and public transport operators and drivers.

"We thank Chair Guadiz for addressing our call to standardize the rollout of discounts for students, PWDs, and senior citizens across digital ride-hailing platforms. Standardization will end the inconsistent application of these discounts and ensure the public receives the benefits mandated by law. We also commend TNCs like Grab, Angkas, and Joyride for respecting these provisions," Panganiban noted.

According to the LTFRB, the upcoming memorandum represents a significant step in improving the equity and transparency of fare discounts for vulnerable sectors, which aligns with its commitment to promote public welfare in the transportation sector.