The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has reminded public utility vehicle (PUV) operators to strictly observe the mandatory 20% fare discount for students, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities (PWDs).
The warning came after a PWD passenger complained that a bus conductor allegedly refused to recognize his discount card during a trip from Pampanga to Manila.
LTFRB Acting Chairperson Greg Pua Jr. said the reported incident, if confirmed, could constitute a violation of the conditions attached to the bus operator’s Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC), as well as laws requiring fare discounts for eligible passengers.
“This is unacceptable because if proven true during the conduct of the investigation, it was not only a violation of the condition set in the issuance of Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC) but also a clear violation of the law,” said Pua.
According to the complaint, the passenger boarded a bus at a Pampanga terminal and presented a PWD identification card issued by the local government. The conductor allegedly refused to accept the ID and consequently did not grant the required fare reduction.
The passenger further alleged that the same conductor had earlier been sanctioned by the bus company for giving a fare discount to another PWD passenger.
Pua has instructed the LTFRB Legal Division to examine the complaint and determine what action should be taken.
He emphasized that the agency will continue enforcing the fare discount requirement and has taken action against transport operators previously found violating similar rules.
“This is a fair warning to all PUV operators. Honor this policy, otherwise, we will run after you,” Pua said.
The LTFRB also encouraged commuters to report similar cases and other transportation violations through Hotline 1342, email, or the agency’s official social media platforms.