Grab to appeal PCC’s P12-M fine

MANILA, Philippines — Grab will appeal the Philippine Competition Commission (PCC)’s decision imposing a P12-million fine on the ride-hailing company over merger violations following its acquisition of Uber.

Grab said it would ask the anti-trust body to reconsider its decision.

Earlier, the PCC penalized Grab with an P8-million fine for its failure to maintain pre-merger conditions such as pricing policies, rider promotions, driver incentives and service quality.

In addition, Grab and Uber were fined P4 million each for failure to maintain separate business operations during the merger review.

“We disagree with the PCC’s decision. Grab completed the transaction legally and did not violate the interim measures order,” Miguel Aguilar, lawyer for Grab Philippines, said.

The transport network company said its price algorithim remains the same.

Grab said the firm also maintained its promos and incentives.

Aguilar said the increase in fares was caused by the low supply of vehicles and high demand.

PCC chairman Arsenio Balisacan said they have yet to receive a copy of Grab’s motion for reconsideration.

He said the parties have until Oct. 29 to file an appeal.  – Richmond Mercurio, Louella Desiderio