The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) issued a stern warning to operators and drivers of Transport Network Vehicle Services (TNVS) and Public Utility Vehicles (PUVs) to comply with the law-mandated fare discounts for senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and students.
LTFRB Chairperson Atty. Teofilo Guadiz III said this move underscores the agency’s commitment to safeguarding the rights of marginalized groups in public transportation.
He explained that under Republic Act No. 9994, the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010, and Republic Act No. 7277, the Magna Carta for Disabled Persons, a 20% fare discount is required for senior citizens and PWDs.
Based on LTFRB memorandum circulars, students are also entitled to a similar 20% discount during school days. The agency reminded all PUV operators to grant students the discount at all times, including holidays, weekends, and vacations, 24/7, year-round.
However, despite these straightforward guidelines, non-compliance reports have prompted the agency to take decisive action.
Complaints have emerged, especially from passengers who rely on TNVS platforms, noting the lack of a seamless option to apply discounts.
Similarly, some PUV operators, including jeepneys and bus drivers, have been accused of refusing to honor valid IDs or charging the full fare, leaving passengers frustrated and disadvantaged.
“Such practices go against the law and are a disservice to the commuting public,” said Guadiz.
The LTFRB emphasized that operators and drivers who fail to follow these regulations will face stiff penalties.
Sanctions could include fines, suspension of franchise operations, or revocation for repeat offenders.
The warning highlights the agency’s resolve to ensure that the transportation system does not leave vulnerable sectors behind.
Chairperson Guadiz stressed the importance of compliance, particularly amid rising transportation costs.
He pointed out that honoring these discounts is a legal and moral obligation.
Guadiz assured the public that the LTFRB is ramping up its monitoring activities and will respond promptly to verified complaints.
To empower passengers, the LTFRB has urged the public to report incidents of non-compliance.
Passengers are encouraged to provide detailed information, such as the vehicle’s plate number, the time of the incident, and any supporting evidence, such as receipts or screenshots.
Reports can be submitted through the agency’s hotline or official social media pages.
The LTFRB has also called on TNVS companies to upgrade their platforms, ensuring that discounts for eligible passengers can be easily applied.
Meanwhile, PUV operators must educate their drivers about non-compliance’s legal requirements and consequences.
Awareness and education are seen as key steps in addressing the issue.
This initiative is part of the LTFRB’s broader effort to create a more inclusive and equitable transportation system.
Chairperson Guadiz said the LTFRB’s push for strict enforcement sends a strong message that transportation services should prioritize accessibility and inclusivity.
By enforcing fare discounts, the agency aims to reduce the financial burden on senior citizens, PWDs, and students while promoting a culture of fairness and responsibility among transport operators.
“Non-compliance with discount policies not only undermines passengers’ rights but also tarnishes the reputation of the public transport sector,” Guadiz said.
