The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has directed public utility vehicle (PUV) operators and drivers, particularly those serving provincial and long-distance routes, to ensure their units are roadworthy ahead of the expected surge in passengers during All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.
Acting LTFRB Chairman Greg G. Pua, Jr. said ensuring that every PUV unit is properly maintained is an obligation that each operator must comply with based on the conditions set in the issuance of Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC) and other authority to operate.
“Always remember that your passengers pay not only for them to reach their destinations but also for the trust and confidence that they will travel safely and comfortably,” Pua said.
Millions of Filipinos are expected to go to provinces and other areas for the “Undas” and vacation plans. The significant increase in the number of passengers is expected to start on Friday, October 30.
In order to ensure that the demand for more passenger buses is met, the LTFRB issued special permits to more than 1,200 passenger buses across the country, with most covering Metro Manila to various parts of Luzon routes and vice versa.
Pua, however, said the reminder for the roadworthiness of PUVs also extends to other modes of public transportation as millions of people are also expected to tap taxis, ride-hailing services, and other PUVs on their way to and from bus terminals and other transportation hubs like airports and seaports.
“Let us do away with the ‘puwede pa yan’ mentality. Lives of people are at stake and as responsible operators and drivers, it is always a must to regularly check the condition of your units,” Pua also said.
Aside from the lives of the drivers and passengers, Acting Chairman Pua said poorly maintained PUV units also pose safety threats to other road users.
“Our reminder for road safety comes with a warning of serious legal consequences. Let us not go that way by simply complying with the obligations which you promised to observe when you were applying for the CPC and authority to operate,” Pua added.