(Photo courtesy of LTFRB)
MANILA, Philippines – The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has issued special permits to 372 passenger buses to accommodate the expected increase in provincial travelers during the five-day break coinciding with the 49th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit.
Acting LTFRB Chairperson Greg Pua Jr. said Friday, November 13, that the agency had intensified random inspections at major bus terminals to ensure passenger safety and the readiness of public transport operators.
“We expect a large influx of our countrymen to the bus terminals to return to their respective provinces for vacation because this is a five-day school holiday,” Pua said.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. earlier declared November 16 to 18 as special non-working days in Metro Manila, creating a five-day break that is expected to increase demand for provincial bus services.
Of the 372 buses granted special permits, 245 will serve routes to Northern Luzon, while 111 will operate in Central Luzon.
The remaining 16 buses will serve destinations in Bicol, Southern Luzon and Western Visayas.
The LTFRB said its inspections focus on the roadworthiness of buses and the physical and mental fitness of drivers and conductors, particularly those assigned to long-distance routes.
On Thursday, Pua led an inspection of bus stations along the EDSA Busway, accompanied by LTFRB Franchise Planning and Monitoring Division Chief Sherwin Vizconde, monitoring personnel and members of the agency’s Law Enforcement Unit.
The inspections were conducted to assess transport operators’ preparations and ensure the efficient movement of passengers during the extended holiday period.
Pua also directed the agency’s Regional Franchising and Regulatory Offices to inspect provincial bus terminals and verify compliance with passenger safety and comfort requirements.
These include adequate protection from weather conditions, functional restrooms and accessible facilities for persons with disabilities and senior citizens.
“On the part of your LTFRB, we want to make sure that all our kababayan who would travel starting this weekend will have the peace of mind for fast, reliable, safe and comfortable travel,” Pua said.
The LTFRB chief also reminded bus conductors and operators to honor mandatory fare discounts for eligible passengers.
He warned that operators violating fare discount regulations could face penalties, noting that several had already been sanctioned for similar offenses.
The agency said it would continue monitoring bus terminals and transport operations as travelers begin leaving Metro Manila ahead of the ASEAN Summit activities.
