Operators and drivers of public utility vehicles, particularly those plying provincial or long routes, should always ensure the road worthiness of their units amid the expected increase in the number of passengers for the All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.
This was the reminder of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) as millions of Filipinos begin to prepare for their travel to their home provinces and other destinations for the “Undas” which will also provide a long holiday break.
Acting LTFRB Chairman Atty. Greg G. Pua, Jr. said ensuring that every PUV unit is properly maintained is an obligation that each operator must comply with based on the conditions set in the issuance of Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC) and other authority to operate.
“Always remember that your passengers pay not only for them to reach their destinations but also for the trust and confidence that they will travel safely and comfortably,” said Acting Chairman Pua.
This is in line with the instruction of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos, Jr. to Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Giovanni “Banoy” Z. Lopez, to ensure road safety and protection of all travelers and road users.
Millions of Filipinos are expected to go to provinces and other areas for the “Undas” and vacation plans. The significant increase in the number of passengers are expected to start on Friday, October 30.
In order to ensure that the demand for more passenger buses is met, the LTFRB issued special permits to more than 1,200 passenger buses across the country—most of them are Metro Manila to various parts of Luzon routes, and vice versa.
Acting Chairman Pua, however, said the reminder for the road worthiness of PUVs also extends to other modes of public transportation as millions of people are also expected to tap taxis, ride-hailing services and other PUVs on their way to and from bus terminals and other transportation hubs like airports and seaports.
“Let us do away with the ‘puwede pa yan’ mentality. Lives of people are at stake and as responsible operators and drivers, it is always a must to regularly check the condition of your units,” he said.
Aside from the lives of the drivers and passengers, Acting Chairman Pua said poorly-maintained PUV units also pose safety threats to other road users.
“Our reminder for road safety comes with a warning of serious legal consequences. Let us not go that way by simply complying with the obligations which you promised to observe when you were applying for the CPC and authority to operate,” he said.
