As thousands of Filipinos prepare to travel home for All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has ordered all its regional offices and transport operators nationwide to ensure passenger comfort, safety, and convenience during the Undas exodus.
LTFRB Chairman Atty. Vigor D. Mendoza II issued the directive in line with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s instruction to provide safe and comfortable travel for the public, under the guidance of Transportation Secretary Giovanni Z. Lopez.
“Let’s put an end to the old practice where passengers feel they owe public transport operators for allowing them to board. Your passengers are your lifeline. Show them respect by maintaining clean, presentable, and comfortable terminals,” Mendoza said.
Terminal and vehicle inspections begin
Starting October 24, all LTFRB regional offices have been ordered to conduct thorough inspections of bus terminals, UV Express hubs, and other transport stations nationwide. The checks will cover the condition of facilities and compliance with safety and sanitation standards.
Bus companies and transport operators were likewise instructed to ensure that all vehicles, drivers, and conductors are fit for travel. “We will make sure that all public transport vehicles are roadworthy, and that passengers reach their destinations safely and comfortably,” Mendoza added.
Mendoza emphasized the importance of maintaining clean and properly functioning restrooms in all terminals. “CRs must be functioning properly, well-lit, and well-ventilated — and should be accessible to passengers at no or minimal cost,” he said.
The LTFRB chief also reminded terminal managers to provide adequate, comfortable, and shaded waiting areas, as required by the agency’s standards.
‘Hindi lang pang-Undas’
Mendoza underscored that these inspections will no longer be limited to holiday periods. “Under our watch, this will be a regular thing — not just for Undas, Christmas, or Holy Week. We will require random checks at least once a month,” he said.
He also urged operators to ensure courteous and efficient customer service. “We are appealing to bus companies to remind their employees to treat passengers kindly. We will make sure this is strictly followed,” he warned.
To monitor compliance, LTFRB will deploy “mystery passengers” across the country starting October 24. These undercover inspectors will assess the cleanliness, safety, and overall passenger experience at various transport hubs.
“Our goal is simple — for every Filipino traveler to feel safe, respected, and comfortable while on the road this Undas,” Mendoza said.