The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) will be holding a public consultation meeting on Friday, Feb. 20, to discuss all the issues surrounding the operation of bus and other public utility vehicle (PUVs) terminals.

“The public consultation meeting will primarily focus on terminal requirements and accreditations. We also expect extensive discussion on sharing of best practices that could be adopted and replicated,” said LTFRB chairman Vigor D. Mendoza II.

Mendoza emphasized the necessity of holding the public consultation amid the ongoing crackdown on PUV terminals with run-down facilities across the country.

Based on the latest data, more than 240 bus and PUV terminals were inspected and around 116 of them were found to be non-compliant with safety and comfort regulations set by the LTFRB.

At least one of them was issued with a cease and desist order while several others face revocation of the authority to operate.

Among the common violations noted were uncomfortable and unsafe waiting areas, non-working and untidy comfort rooms, lack of accessibility for senior citizens and persons with disabilities, insufficient safety and security plan.

Mendoza said there is a need to discuss the matter with terminal managers and operators, especially that regular random and surprise inspection of bus and PUV terminals will now be a new normal.

He said they already issued invitations to as many stakeholders to maximize the discussion on how to ensure compliance and further improve PUV terminal operations across the country.

“With the number of violators so far, we need to discuss this and come up with the best measures that are acceptable to everybody-- but are based on the existing rules and regulations,” said Mendoza.

“This meeting is also proof that we are not focused on inspection alone, we are also trying to find ways in improving the services to the commuter with the help of as many stakeholders and transport groups and companies concerned,” he added.