Digital Pinoys urges LTFRB action on TNVS surge pricing

MANILA — Consumer advocacy group Digital Pinoys is urging the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to curb surge pricing and ride cancellations by transport network vehicle service (TNVS) operators as the holiday season begins.

Digital Pinoys national campaigner Ronald Gustilo said the LTFRB must take stronger steps to ensure price stability and protect commuters from steep fare increases during the December travel rush.

“Every December, TNVS fares skyrocket because of high demand and worsening traffic. Commuters bear the brunt of this surge. The LTFRB must put in place firm and enforceable mechanisms that will keep fares within reasonable, government-approved limits,” Gustilo said.

He said TNVS platforms and companies should be held accountable for maintaining sufficient supply during peak periods.

“Platforms and operators should ensure that their accredited drivers are actually on the road—and not avoiding trips they consider unfavorable. Their authority to operate comes with the responsibility to provide safe, accessible, and fairly priced rides. Non-compliance should have consequences,” he said.

Gustilo also urged the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and local government traffic offices to ensure their holiday congestion strategies are fully operational.

“By this time, the MMDA and LGU traffic bureaus should already have concrete, working strategies in place to mitigate congestion. Their personnel and equipment must be ready to handle the surge in road activity as more Filipinos go out to shop, travel, and celebrate. Effective traffic management will directly impact fare stability—poor planning will only drive prices up,” he said.

Digital Pinoys warned that without immediate action, commuters could again face excessive fares, unreliable service, and heavier traffic during the holiday peak.