The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has scrapped the requirement to publish franchise applications in newspapers, in a move aimed at speeding up transactions and reducing costs for operators.
The policy covered applications for Certificates of Public Convenience, which authorize the operation of public utility vehicles, and had previously required notices to be printed in newspapers of general circulation.
Officials said the change was in line with efforts to streamline government services and make processes more efficient for applicants.
LTFRB Chairperson Vigor Mendoza II said the measure was meant to ease the burden on those applying for permits and to accelerate the processing of documents.
The agency said the decision was guided by Republic Act 11032, or the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act of 2018, which directs government offices to remove unnecessary requirements.
Under the new policy, the removal of the publication requirement applies to various transactions, including new applications, extensions, transfers, amendments, and similar requests involving Certificates of Public Convenience.
In place of print publication, the LTFRB said it would use online platforms, including its official website and social media pages, to post notices and other relevant information.
The agency added that the shift to digital dissemination would still ensure transparency and due process, with affected parties allowed to access information and file opposition when necessary.