By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — Qualified operators of transport network vehicle services (TNVS) will no longer need to apply for the renewal of their Certificates of Public Convenience (CPCs), following the automatic conversion of eligible franchises into Authorities to Operate Certificates (ATOCs), the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) announced Tuesday.
The policy, implemented under Memorandum Circular No. 2026-049, provides that all valid and subsisting CPCs authorizing TNVS operations at the time the circular took effect are automatically deemed converted into ATOCs.
LTFRB Chairperson Vigor D. Mendoza II said the move eliminates the need for operators to file renewal applications or motions for conversion, easing regulatory requirements for the sector.
“Our compliance with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to make government services more convenient for operators and drivers of public utility vehicles is progressing well. Qualified TNVS operators no longer need to apply for renewal or conversion under the ATOC system,” Mendoza said.
The automatic conversion likewise covers CPCs issued for authorized TNVS units powered by non-internal combustion engine (non-ICE) technologies, including electric vehicles.
Operators who need an official copy of their converted ATOC may simply file a manifestation with the LTFRB Legal Division or the Legal Section of the appropriate Regional Franchising and Regulatory Office. The agency said no filing fees will be collected for either the manifestation or the issuance of the converted certificate.
However, the LTFRB clarified that the automatic conversion does not apply to CPCs that had already expired before the circular took effect, even if renewal applications remain pending. Likewise excluded are CPCs that had been canceled, revoked, suspended, or had otherwise ceased to be valid before the implementation of the memorandum.
The agency said the streamlined process is part of the government’s broader effort to improve the ease of doing business by reducing administrative procedures for TNVS operators while ensuring uninterrupted transport services.
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