LTFRB: 29 more bus, PUV terminals operators summoned over dilapidated facilities
(LTFRB)
A total of 29 more operators of bus and public utility vehicle (PUV) terminals were summoned and issued with notice of violation in the continuing inspections of transportation facilities across the country, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) said.
LTFRB chairperson Vigor D. Mendoza II said the move is intended to ensure the safety and welfare of passengers amid complaints of dilapidated facilities and unsafe bus and PUV terminals.
“The regular inspection of bus and PUV terminals will now be a new normal. This is the only way at this point to instill in the minds of the operators that they must comply with the regulations at all times,” said Mendoza.
“And this is also the way to send a message to passengers that they have the right to safe and comfortable transportation terminals, and that the LTFRB is always on their side on this aspect,” he added.
The issuance of SCO and notice of violation brought to 86 the total number of bus and PUV terminals found to have violated the rules and regulations in maintaining terminals.
Mendoza earlier vowed to ensure the safety and comfort of passengers at the bus and PUV terminals as a complement to the planned implementation of a new policy that will prevent run-down PUVs from renewing their franchises.
Last week, LTFRB regional directors started deploying their personnel to conduct random and surprise inspections in their respective areas of responsibility.
Among the key facilities that were specifically given focus in the inspections are comfortable waiting areas with sufficient protection from weather conditions, clean comfort rooms, accessibility of facilities to senior citizens and persons with disabilities, existence of fire extinguishers and CCTV and wide entry and exit points.
Most of the bus and PUV terminals summoned and issued with notice to comply were in Region 10 with 20 terminals, Metro Manila with 13, and Calabarzon with 12 terminals.
“We will not hesitate to shut down the operation of any bus terminals whose operators remain defiant. We did it before, we can do it always if they will not comply,” said Mendoza.
Last week, a bus terminal in Iloilo was issued with a cease and desist order from the LTFRB for gross violations of rules and regulations on passenger safety.