The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has issued a stern warning to operators of bus terminals and public transport hubs regarding poorly maintained facilities as millions of travelers begin heading to the provinces for the traditional Undas break.
LTFRB Chairman Atty. Greg Pua Jr. announced the warning following initial inspections of several Metro Manila bus stations, which uncovered substandard conditions that compromise passenger comfort and safety.
Among the most common infractions noted by inspectors were poorly maintained restrooms, inadequate waiting spaces, and insufficient shelter to protect commuters from the elements.
Reminding operators of their core responsibilities, Pua emphasized that passenger welfare is a fundamental obligation tied directly to their franchise permissions and business survival.
“It is the obligation of the bus operators to ensure the safety and comfort of their passengers. This is not only about the conditions set in the authority to operate, it is also about debt of gratitude because their passengers are main the lifeline of their operation,” said Pua.
“You should show gratitude to the passengers by reciprocating the trust they have placed in you,” he added.
To enforce compliance, the LTFRB has deployed personnel to monitor terminals nationwide. Operators were reminded to adhere to LTFRB Memorandum Circular 2017-030, which outlines mandatory passenger amenities and imposes penalties of 5,000 pesos per day for each violation.
Regional directors across all Regional Franchising and Regulatory Offices (RFROs) have been directed to conduct unannounced, random inspections leading up to the holiday peak expected on Friday. These checks cover terminal amenities as well as the mechanical roadworthiness of passenger buses.
“The goal has always been to ensure the safety and comfort of the passengers at this time of the year,” said Pua.
To accommodate the surge in holiday travel, the LTFRB previously issued special permits for over 1,200 additional passenger buses to ensure adequate supply for commuters returning to their home provinces.