Local transport leader Diego Malacad is questioning the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board’s service contracting scheme.
Malacad, secretary-general of United Negros Drivers and Operators Center, said Thursday, May 27, that he has doubts about the “legitimacy of the contract” since the program was supposed to be an assistance to the drivers as part of the national government’s Bayanihan to Recover as One Act (Bayanihan 2).
Under the program, drivers and operators of public utility vehicles can enter into transport service contracts with the government to help ease the impact of the pandemic in the transport sector.
In the agreement, the duties of LTFRB include monitoring the operation of the unit on a daily basis, providing a service plan, investigating any complaints, and inspecting the units to assure compliance.
Drivers who entered into the contract must operate within the prescribed service plan, observe traffic laws, ensure that their Android smartphone has a global positioning system, mobile data, and to keep it turned on for proper monitoring, ensure that the unit will carry the load of passenger in compliance with the safety protocols, and comply with the provisions of the contract.
But for Malacad, the scheme is more of a burden for the drivers as the P4,000 assistance, which could help them in their livelihood, will have to be used for the purchase of the smartphone, that is needed for the program.
He said they are looking to hold a three to five day strike in protest against the program.
Richard Osmeña, LTFRB-6 regional director, could not be reached for comment.
Meanwhile, Frank Carbon, Metro Bacolod Chamber of Commerce and Industry chief executive officer, said they have reached out to the transport group to facilitate assistance such as investments or loans from the bank for a vehicle.*