Calls for Regulation of Transport Network Vehicle System (TNVS) Industry
During the Kapihan sa Eurotel Media Forum, members of the 19th Congress and a transport leader urged the regulation of the Transport Network Vehicle System (TNVS) industry. House Deputy Majority Leader and TGP PartyList Representative, Cong. Jose ‘Bong’ Teves Jr., supported the idea of creating a law to regulate the TNVS industry to ensure stability despite leadership changes at the LTFRB.
Key Points from Cong. Bong Teves Jr.:
- 20% Discount Burden: Teves emphasized that drivers should not bear the 20% discount for students and PWDs, as it is burdensome.
- Support for Drivers: He helped 5,000 drivers during the COVID-19 pandemic from March 2020 to December 2022.
- Healthcare Initiatives: Teves proposed VAT exemption on all medicines and aims to institutionalize “zero billing” for medical assistance in public and private hospitals. He advocates for comprehensive PhilHealth coverage for all diseases without discrimination.
- Economic Measures: Teves co-authored the P200 wage increase in the 19th Congress, addressing the rising cost of living.
Statements from Cong. Bong Suntay:
- MC Taxi Limitations: As President of the Philippine National Taxi Operators Association, Suntay agreed on limiting Motorcycle (MC) taxis due to policy inconsistencies affecting stakeholders.
- Rationalizing Transport Sector: He emphasized the need to rationalize routes to prevent conflicts between traditional taxis and TNVS.
- Financial Struggles: Suntay highlighted the financial strain on taxi drivers due to increasing taxes and insufficient fare adjustments.
Insights from Leonardo “Jun” De Leon (President, Laban TNVS):
- 20% Discount Responsibility: De Leon argued that the 20% discount should be shouldered by operators, not drivers. In 2023, drivers bore the full cost, despite an LTFRB Memorandum Order stating transport companies should cover it.
- Need for Regulation: De Leon stressed the importance of regulating the growing number of motorcycle taxis and TNVS units to avoid disruptions in the transport industry.
- Economic Concerns: He noted the financial difficulties faced by TNVS drivers due to rising petroleum prices.
Conclusion:
The discussions highlighted the need for comprehensive legislation to regulate the TNVS industry, balance the interests of drivers and operators, and ensure a fair transport ecosystem. Additionally, Teves’s healthcare and economic initiatives aimed at improving public welfare were underscored as key legislative priorities for the 20th Congress.
