Can students still avail of 20 percent fare discount during vacations and holidays?

Yes, according to the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) as it reminded operators and drivers of Transport Network Vehicle Services (TNVS) and Public Utility Vehicles (PUVs) that students’ fare discount applies 24/7 and year round.

LTFRB chairperson Teofilo Guadiz III also warned operators and drivers that they will be facing stiff penalties if the agency would receive a complaint that they would argue with the students and disregard what is stipulated in the law.

“Students are entitled to a 20% discount during school days based on LTFRB memorandum circulars. All PUV operators are required to grant students the discount at all times, including holidays, weekends, and during vacation, 24/7, year-round,” said Guadiz.  

“Operators and drivers who fail to follow these regulations will face stiff penalties. Sanctions could include fines, suspension of franchise operations, or even franchise revocation for repeat offenders,” he added. 

He also emphasized that the same rule applies for senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PWDs) and failure to do so would be in violation of the Republic Act No. 9994 or the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010 and Republic Act No. 7277 or the Magna Carta for Disabled Persons.

Guadiz said he was prompted to issue the warning after receiving reports of non-compliance of some PUV drivers despite these clear guidelines.

He said complaints have emerged, especially from passengers who rely on TNVS platforms, noting the lack of a seamless option to apply discounts.

Similarly, some PUV operators, including jeepneys and bus drivers, have been accused of refusing to honor valid IDs or charging the full fare, leaving passengers frustrated and disadvantaged.

“Such practices go against the law and are a disservice to the commuting public,” said Guadiz.

He said the LTFRB’s push for strict enforcement sends a strong message that transportation services should prioritize accessibility and inclusivity. 

Rising transportation cost 

Guadiz said his warning warning highlights the agency’s resolve to ensure that vulnerable sectors are not left behind in the transportation system, as he stressed the the importance of compliance, particularly amid rising transportation costs.  

He pointed out that honoring these discounts is a legal obligation and a moral duty.

By enforcing fare discounts, Guadiz said the agency aims to reduce the financial burden on senior citizens, PWDs, and students while promoting a culture of fairness and responsibility among transport operators.

“Non-compliance with discount policies not only undermines the rights of passengers but also tarnishes the reputation of the public transport sector,” Guadiz said.  

Report them! 

Guadiz assured the public that the LTFRB is ramping up its monitoring activities and will respond promptly to verified complaints.

Reporting system 

To empower passengers, the LTFRB has urged the public to report incidents of non-compliance. 

Passengers are encouraged to provide detailed information, such as the vehicle’s plate number, the time of the incident, and any supporting evidence like receipts or screenshots.

Reports can be submitted through the agency’s hotline or official social media pages.

Educate your drivers 

The LTFRB has also called on TNVS companies to upgrade their platforms, ensuring that discounts for eligible passengers can be applied with ease. 

PUV operators are reminded to educate their drivers about the legal requirements and the consequences of non-compliance. 

“Awareness and education are seen as key steps in addressing the issue,” said Guadiz.