Public transport operators in Metro Manila were directed to impose tighter health protocols inside public utility vehicles (PUVs) and terminals as the capital region was placed under Alert Level 3 on Monday, Jan. 3 until Jan. 15, following a spike in COVID-19 cases.
Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Arthur P. Tugade added that maximum passenger capacity in PUVs will remain at 70 percent to cater to the expected influx of passengers going back from provinces after the holiday season.
"With the continued rise of COVID-19 cases in NCR, the DOTr enjoins our land-based transport operators to remind passengers to strictly observe minimum health protocols and ensure that the maximum allowable passenger capacity is followed," Tugade said in a statement on Monday.
"We cannot let our guard down. Following the government’s minimum health protocol is for our greater good. We must remain vigilant so we can reverse the uptick of cases in the country," he added.
In a memorandum issued by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Sunday, Jan. 2, it warned drivers and operators that non-observance of health protocols in PUVs and the set passenger capacity are considered violations of franchise conditions.
According to the LTFRB, penalties for violating PUV franchise conditions range from hefty fines to the impounding of the involved unit, while erring drivers can get their licenses suspended or face additional criminal complaints.
Meanwhile, the DOTr chief urged the public to still strictly observe the following seven commandments for public transport as recommended by health experts:
1. Wear face masks;
2. No talking and making phone calls;
3. No eating;
4. Keep public utility vehicles well ventilated;
5. Conduct of frequent disinfection;
6. No passengers with COVID-19 symptoms are to be allowed inside public transportation;
7. Observe appropriate physical distancing rule
"It is the responsibility of each individual to comply with this requirement. These seven commandments for public transport create a sense of Bayanihan among us Filipinos, which is needed in the fight against the pandemic," Tugade added.