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For many young people, getting a ride via Uber and Grab has become a vital part of their lives—when rushing to and from school, going home after a night out or even when they’re not feeling well and nobody can pick them up.

These convenient app-based ride-sharing services have recently encountered problems with the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) over their permits to operate.

The issue has blown into a controversy—the general public disappointed at LTFRB and saying that commuting via Uber and Grab is comfortable and safe, as opposed to taxicabs, whose drivers are notorious for rudeness and tendency to overcharge fares.

But while the increasing number of Uber and Grab vehicles have also added to Metro Manila’s traffic woes, it is the LTFRB’s duty to first avoid a potential crisis if it will insist on cutting down ride-sharing services.

College students weigh in on the issue.

Trust

“Uber and Grab have erased the fear and worry I experience with other means of public transportation. Uber and Grab have earned my trust through their security measures (you can track where the car is), and I also admire the etiquette of their drivers. And because of their student discounts, I can avail of efficient professional service at a lower cost.” —Jalo Gambalan, UP Diliman

“I don’t like how, all of a sudden, the LTFRB is trying to remove Grab and Uber. It will be inconvenient for us who are already used to this mode of transportation. But I also see the point of regulation, since the government has no share in the income of these companies, which makes their operations tax-free.” —Ina Cruz, De La Salle University

“Whenever my driver is late, I always take an Uber to school so I will not miss class. When I have to go home late and don’t want my sister to wait for me, I take an Uber instead of making her wait two hours for me to finish.” —Mikaela Mendoza, UP Diliman

“Uber and Grab are super reliable and have saved me many times. As an Ateneo student who lives in Makati, it gets difficult to find safe ways to get home at odd hours. I don’t take taxis, they are usually more expensive and many cab drivers don’t even follow the meter. Not to mention, my parents are always reassured when I take Uber or Grab, they are easily able to get the details of the car I am riding in. What is happening to Uber and Grab is unfair—they have been providing Filipinos with services that the LTFRB has not been able to, and until such a time it can, the LTFRB should not even think of discontinuing Uber and Grab.” —Shireen Gopaldas, Ateneo De Manila University

“I’m frustrated with what LTFRB is doing to Uber and Grab, whose services have become part of my daily routine. The LTFRB should consider the people who will be affected by its actions.” —David Rabaya, UP Diliman