Philippines: Government issues month-long Uber ban August 15

Event

The Philippine Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) upheld a one-month suspension of Uber operations in the country (from August 15 to September 15), after a year-long regulatory battle with the company over the unregulated hiring of new drivers. The LTFRB did not give an explicit reason for the suspension, and Uber has filed an appeal with the regulator, stating that it will resume operations until the motion is resolved.

Traffic disruptions and increased congestion on other modes of transportation are to be expected in Metro Manila and other major cities in the coming month while the ban remains in effect.

Context

The LFTRB has been attempting to regulate the private sector transport industry in the Philippines over the past year. Uber and other ride-share apps employ approximately 120,000 drivers in the country, out of which only 7000 are estimated to be properly accredited.

Advice

Individuals present in the Philippines are advised to anticipate increased demand and potential delays on alternative modes of transportation and to adhere to all government regulations.

On a separate note, most Western governments formally advise against all travel to southwest Mindanao and to the Sulu Archipelago due to terrorist activity, regular clashes between the military and insurgent groups, and the risk of kidnapping by Abu Sayyaf.