Land transportation authorities appeared to have finally come into their senses after it started a crackdown on dilapidated public utility vehicle (PUVs) and terminals with run-down facilities after years of neglect and underperformance in improving the state of the public transportation system. 

On Saturday, Feb. 28, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), issued a show cause order on owners of a taxi and a passenger bus for operating what the agency described as “unsanitary” and “unsightly” PUVs in Metro Manila.

LTFRB chairman Vigor D. Mendoza himself chanced upon the taxi after noticing that the driver looked like a bystander who was out for an unplanned road trip as the cabbie was on short pants and inappropriate shirt.

And when he pulled over to confront the taxi driver, he was shocked to see that the seats of the cab were full of holes and were covered by rags, and described the interior of the vehicle as unsanitary.

On the part of the passenger bus, it was seen travelling near the Quezon Memorial Circle on February 26 and a photo of it in dilapidated and unsightly condition was forwarded to the LTFRB as proof. 

“The condition of this taxi and bus also put to question the road worthiness of the two vehicles. These kinds of units should not be on the road, and definitely should not be used for public transportation,” said Mendoza.

In the SCO, both the operators of the taxi and bus were asked to explain in writing why its Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC) should not be suspended or revoked over the condition of their units.

The taxi operator was asked to explain in writing why it has been operating an unsanitary cab, with the driver not in proper uniform or appropriate clothing while the bus operator was also asked to produce all its units for inspection.

Both the two operators were warned of consequences should they ignore the SCO.

“This is a strong message to all operators to shape up. Otherwise, they will face serious consequences for not treating their passengers well,” said Mendoza.

“It is clear when you apply for CPCs that you will treat your passengers well. But in this case, the passengers are clearly being disrespected by the condition of these PUVs,” he added.

Mendoza said the issuance of the SCO is proof of the LTFRB’s commitment to fight for the welfare of the commuters by running after drivers and operators who violate the conditions set in the issuance of the CPCs. 

He said the operation will continue and urge the public to report not only PUVs with dilapidated conditions but also bus and PUV terminals.

More than 120 SCOs and notices of violation were issued by the LTFRB against operators of terminals with run-down facilities.