Move It seeks review of preliminary LTFRB decision
Move It, the motorcycle taxi platform owned by Grab Philippines, has filed a motion for reconsideration against a preliminary ruling that imposed a P555.75 million penalty, equivalent to about $8.7 million.
The decision was issued by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), which alleged that the platform exceeded the number of rider-partners permitted under the Philippines’ Motorcycle Taxi Pilot Program.
The regulator said Move It had been authorized to maintain 17,746 rider-partners across Metro Manila, Cebu City and Cagayan de Oro. Its review found that the company had 55,575 riders above that approved allocation.
Under the ruling, the platform was assessed P10,000 for each rider-partner deemed to be beyond the cap. The agency has said the penalty is not yet final because Move It has formally sought reconsideration.
Platform disputes the way rider numbers are counted
In its response, Move It said the core dispute involves how rider allocation should be measured in an on-demand transport business.
The company argued that rider availability changes continually because partners choose when to log into the app and when to go offline. It said the number of registered riders should not automatically be treated as the number of riders simultaneously deployed on the road.
According to Move It, a more practical assessment would focus on rider-partners actively online and ready to accept bookings at a specific time. The platform said this distinction becomes particularly important during morning and evening rush periods, when commuters require more available transport options.
The company said it respects the authority of the LTFRB and is using the appropriate administrative process to challenge the preliminary decision. It also said it supports a regulatory structure that accounts for the operating conditions of motorcycle taxi services.
LTFRB keeps details limited while case proceeds
The LTFRB has declined to provide further details of its investigation while the reconsideration request remains pending. The board said the continuing legal process requires due process before a final resolution is issued.
The regulator has also acknowledged the position of riders affected by the dispute. Many rider-partners invested in motorcycles, safety equipment and other work-related expenses after joining platforms operating under the pilot program.
Officials said they are considering measures related to affected riders while maintaining compliance with the allocation rules set for accredited motorcycle taxi operators.
Motorcycle taxi policy remains under review
The case has renewed debate over whether current rider limits match the needs of the growing motorcycle taxi market in the Philippines.
The pilot program was designed to regulate a transport segment that has expanded alongside app-based mobility services. Industry participants have previously called for the cap to be reviewed, arguing that demand, traffic conditions and rider availability differ across cities and time periods.
The House of Representatives has previously approved legislation intended to establish a formal legal framework for motorcycle taxis. Until a final law and implementing rules are adopted, operators such as Move It will continue to operate under the pilot program and its allocation requirements.
