The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) launched a crackdown on substandard public utility vehicles, issuing Show Cause Orders to at least 10 jeepney operators following surprise inspections in Quezon City on Tuesday, February 10.
The inspections, conducted along West Avenue, Fernando Poe Jr. Avenue, and Roosevelt, revealed multiple violations ranging from mechanical defects to franchise breaches.
According to LTFRB Chairperson Atty. Vigor D. Mendoza II, the 10 units were found parked on public roads, indicating a lack of designated garages.
This constitutes a direct violation of Memorandum Circular No. 2017-027.
Inspectors flagged several safety and comfort issues during the sweep, including defective brake lights, worn-out seat cushions, and deteriorating ceilings.
Drivers were also reprimanded for failing to wear proper uniforms. Additionally, a team dispatched to Eton Centris issued reminders to terminal operators to upgrade facilities for passenger safety.
Mendoza emphasized that these surprise checks are part of a broader mandate from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez to prioritize commuter welfare.
He stated that the move serves as a strong message that the agency is committed to a drastic change regarding run-down vehicles and terminals with dilapidated facilities.
To date, the LTFRB has issued Show Cause Orders and notices of violation to 87 bus and PUV terminals across the country.
The agency has vowed to sustain these aggressive operations to ensure that the millions of Filipinos relying on public transport daily can commute safely and comfortably.