A Partylist Representative put ride-hailing apps on notice after discrepancies between registered drivers and actual drivers operating through their app were highlighted in the House Joint Committee Hearing on Government Response to the Oil Crisis Brought About by conflicts in the Middle East.
Cong. Nathan “Atty. Nat” Oducado blasted transport network vehicle service (TNVS) apps, including big players like Grab and Move It, after masterlists submitted to the Department of Transportation (DOTR) reportedly do not reflect the actual number of drivers operating through ride-hailing platforms, causing issues in the distribution of aid to indigent drivers.
“It is disappointing how it took a crisis to expose that there is a huge gap between how many drivers are declared by TNVS apps and how many are actually on the road,” said Cong. Oducado, as the DOTR pointed out that the discrepancies are causing significant delays and confusion in the distribution of government support during the ongoing oil crisis.
Previous reports indicate that many active drivers are either missing from official masterlists or unable to verify their eligibility. This means that the total number of drivers could overwhelmingly exceed the maximum number of drivers TNVS apps are allowed to have by law.
“Kapag pinabayaan natin ang ganitong sistema, para na rin nating kinukunsinti ang colorum operations. Platforms must be held accountable for ensuring that only duly registered and compliant drivers are allowed to operate,” Oducado stressed. “These discrepancies are unacceptable, especially in a time of crisis.”
Oducado called on fellow lawmakers to fully investigate Grab, Move It, Angkas, and other TNVS platforms once the oil crisis has abated, as the current priority is to help all drivers.
According to Oducado, proliferation of colorum drivers has raised further concerns, particularly regarding passenger safety as recent high-profile cases highlight risks faced by women commuters using TNVS.
“We need to fix the system to protect both our drivers and the riding public,” Oducado stated. “Commuters need stricter driver verification and accountability mechanisms gaining urgency.”
According to Oducado, colorum operations undermine both regulatory oversight and commuter trust, as these drivers often bypass background checks, vehicle inspections, and insurance requirements.
“Passengers, especially women commuters, deserve the assurance that their drivers are properly vetted, registered, and accountable under the law,” Oducado emphasized. “The lack of traceability makes it more difficult for authorities to respond effectively to complaints or incidents.”
The lawmaker urged leading ride-hailing companies to cleanse their systems, update their masterlists, and help the Government ensure that assistance reaches only legitimate beneficiaries.
