DOTr suspends Grab PH-Move-It app merger

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) issues a suspension order on the app merger by Grab Philippine and Move It for the ongoing motorcycle taxi pilot run.

Mark Steven Pastor, DOTr Assistant Secretary for Road Transport and Infrastructure, reported to the members of the Senate Committee on Finance that they have ordered the two app-hailing transport companies to stop implementing the app merger to pave the way for an inquiry on the matter.

This was after the Lawyers for Commuter Safety and Protection (LCSP) criticized the move of Grab PH and Move It in coming up with an ‘app-in-app’ arrangement which, the group claims, circumvents the pilot run’s programs and objectives.

It can be recalled that only three ride-hailing motorcycle taxi companies that were given accreditation by the technical working group (TWG) of the DOTr for the pilot run scheme include Move It, JoyRide and Angkas.

“Itinigil po muna ang pag-implement nitong partnership ng Move It at Grab habang ito ay subject for further study ng Technical Working Group at mga proponents ng pilot run project,” says Pastor, adding that the suspension order took effect last September 28.

Senator Grace Poe, asking for the Department’s order in writing, requested the Philippine Competition Commission to look into the matter, to prevent unfair competition brought about by the alliance of Grab and Move It. “It is not anymore a reliable study if the goal posts move in the middle of the study.” the Senator stressed. (Atty. Ariel Enrile-Inton)