A Shocking Discovery: Colorum Drivers in the Transport Sector
In a stunning revelation, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) has uncovered a significant issue within the transport sector: thousands of Transport Network Vehicle Service (TNVS) drivers and motorcycle taxi riders are operating without the necessary franchises. This situation has come to light during the disbursement of cash aid to workers in the transport sector—an effort intended to support them amidst skyrocketing fuel prices.
A Discrepancy in Numbers
Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez bravely shared this eye-opening information during an interview on Super Radyo dzBB. He explained that only 54,000 TNVS drivers are authorized to operate based on the DOTr’s records. Yet, when it came time for them to seek financial assistance, an astonishing 100,000 drivers showed up.
“How could this happen?” you might wonder.
Lopez stated, with palpable frustration, “For TNVS, the allowed number is only 54,000—those with a proper franchise. But we’ve seen it balloon past that number.” He was not done; he turned his attention to the world of motorcycle taxis, revealing yet another shocking reality.
The Motorcycle Taxi Conundrum
The situation isn’t any better for motorcycle taxi riders. Each provider has a cap of 78,000, yet there are reportedly over 200,000 riders currently on the roads. “It’s clear; we are in way over our heads,” Lopez lamented.
In an effort to regain control, he has issued a firm directive: all onboarding of new drivers and riders for both TNVS and motorcycle taxis must stop, except for those who already possess a valid franchise.
A Need for Accountability
In his candid remarks, Lopez didn’t shy away from placing some blame on government officials. He expressed disbelief that no one had noticed this significant excess of drivers operating without proper documentation.
“There must be accountability,” Lopez emphasized, citing a clear lapse in the system. “Either people were turning a blind eye, or they genuinely could not see the problem right in front of them.”
To maintain order and safety in the transport sector, the DOTr has also halted all on-the-spot and same-day onboarding activities of transport network companies (TNCs) and motorcycle taxi platform providers (MTPPs).
Moving Forward with Steps to Punish
The DOTr is currently looking into imposing penalties against TNCs and MTPPs that have violated the caps on the number of drivers and riders allowed to operate.
The transport sector has been in turmoil, and it’s crucial to address these alarming discrepancies. As the situation unfolds, one thing is clear: accountability and transparency must take center stage.
This revelation not only raises concerns about regulation but also the very livelihoods of countless drivers and riders, and the safety of passengers on the roads. It’s a wake-up call for the transport sector, urging all involved to rise to the occasion and ensure a safer, more regulated environment for everyone.
