Structural integrity inspection on bus terminals, PUV stations ordered in quake-hit areas in Mindanao
The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) ordered an all-out structural integrity inspection of bus terminals and other public transportation hubs in areas affected by the 7.8 magnitude quake in Mindanao.
Central Mindanao and Davao region were the worst-hit areas of the Monday’s strong quake and LTFRB chairman Vigor D. Mendoza II said he already instructed the local agency officials to coordinate with local government units and other agencies in relation to the inspections.
“We want to ensure the safety of both the passengers and our partners in the PUV sector through a thorough inspection on the structural integrity of bus terminals and other land transportation hubs,” said Mendoza.
The same level of coordination, he said, must be made with establishment owners housing bus stations and transportation terminals.
Authorities reported at least 37 deaths as a result of the earthquake while more than 200 were reported injured. The casualties were due to collapsed buildings, houses and other establishments.
Malacañang ordered an all-out assistance to the victims of the tremor and immediately after the earthquake, Mendoza said he tasked all LTFRB regional offices to check on the condition of all their respective personnel.
“The safety and well-being of our personnel and all our clients are of paramount concern and as such, I have already suspended the operation of our offices especially in severely-affected areas,” said Mendoza.
He said local LTFRB officials in the affected areas were also tasked to continue monitoring the situation and come up with contingency plan to ensure that our operation will not be compromised for a long time.