A man in a photo is using his mobile phone to test the iTow App of MMDA.
(UNTV NEWS)
Towing companies beware. Because the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) now has a faster way of receiving complaints of abuse through a mobile application.
After downloading the iTow App successfully, open the application, type your complaint or message, and press ‘send’.
The application also allows the complainant to upload pictures.
It will immediately reach the MMDA metrobase for appropriate action.
And to ensure the agency’s prompt action, each MMDA accredited tow truck will be accompanied by one traffic constable.
Traffic constables may act on the complaint right away.
“In case of complaint or suggestion, [they] could approach the traffic constable assigned in each tow truck,” said traffic constable Roldan Aban.
MMDA is also capable of monitoring the whereabouts of each tow truck.
“They get to take pictures of the incident and that picture, including all the details are being transmitted to us. By that, we can easily identify the vehicle that they are towing,” said MMDA chair Atty. Emerson Carlos.
MMDA clarifies that only MMDA-accredited companies are covered by the iTow App. It doesn’t include towing companies operated by the local government units.
MMDA also plans to put up posters of the standard rate for towing companies in order to prevent extortion and abuse against motorists.
Based on MMDA standard rate, charges per 4km for light vehicles (cars and jeepneys) – P1,500; medium vehicles (trucks and buses) – P2,500; heavy vehicles (container vans and trailers) – P4,500.
The charge for each succeeding kilometer is P200.
Just recently, 15 tow trucks failed the emission testing conducted by MMDA. They were given a one-year ban. The MMDA said, it is better to have fewer accredited towing companies provided that they are doing their jobs well.
Meanwhile, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board will begin its inspection on towing companies.
The agency will verify whether they have official franchise and if there is negligence on the part of the operators.
(MON JOCSON/UNTV NEWS)
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