The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) is set to deploy “mystery riders” on transport network vehicle services (TNVS) following complaints of overcharging passengers.

In a statement on Thursday, the LTFRB said transport network companies (TNC) have been charging “excessive fares” beyond the fare structure mandated under Memorandum Circular (MC) No. 2019-036.

“The LTFRB intends to deploy mystery riders in the next few days to check on the compliance of the TNCs and TNVS operators on the proper fare structure and the terms and conditions of the MC,” it said.

The crackdown is in response to a complaint submitted to the LTFRB that a TNC was charging as much as PHP1,000 for a “priority charging fee” in a one-way ride.

“The LTFRB is currently investigating the said complaint,” it said.

Any TNCs and TNVS operators found in violation of the LTFRB’s fare structure will be subject to fines and penalties under Joint Administrative Order 2014-01.

Under MC No. 2019-036, the fares for TNVS are PHP40 flag down rate for sedans in addition to PHP15 per kilometer (km) and PHP2 per minute, PHP50 flag down rate for premium AUVs and SUVs in addition to PHP18 per km and PHP2 per minute, and PHP30 flag down rate for hatchbacks and sub-compacts in addition to PHP13 per km and PHP2 per minute.

“Surge rate of double the sum of fare per kilometer and per minute travel is applicable for all types of TNVS,” it said.

On May 24, warning letters were sent to accredited TNCs E-pick Me Up, Joy Ride, My Taxi PH (Grab), and Cloud Panda against excessive fares.

“Based on MC No. 2015-016-A, otherwise known as the Terms and Conditions of a Certificate of TNC, TNCs are required to make the rate structure transparent before the potential passenger confirms the ride,” it said.

The riding public is urged to report any irregularities they experience with ride-hailing platforms through the LTFRB hotline at 1342 or through its Facebook page. (PNA)