MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) on Thursday ordered the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board to coordinate with Uber transport service firms and work out a way to prevent them from being tagged as colorum operators.
"I have asked the LTFRB to reach out to Uber and seek ways to modernize our transportation rules. While the LTFRB was only doing its job in implementing the law, we also have a duty to push for modern solutions to archaic problems," ?DOTC Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya said.
"I view our role in the DOTC as one that is supportive of new approaches to addressing transportation inadequacies. Regulations must keep up with fast-paced technological innovations, and one way to do that is to amend antiquated laws or policies which may no longer be responsive to today’s needs," he added.
Abaya made the directive as the LTFRB has continuously go after Uber vehicles, insisting that its operations are considered colorum because they do not have franchise or permit to operate.
"We welcome the solutions made possible by technology in helping us meet the public’s needs. At the same time, we recognize the LTFRB for sticking to the law and performing its duties without fear or favor. Now, government must work together with innovators from the tech industry for the benefit of the people. Hopefully, we can integrate these solutions into the DOTC’s taxi reform program," Abaya said.