MANILA, Philippines — The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Thursday said it granted 753 buses special permits to ramp up preparations for the commemoration of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day or Undas.
According to LTFRB chair Teofilo Guadiz III, the LTFRB issued 272 special permits, which are equivalent to 753 buses.
The special permits are valid from October 25 to November 10, 2024.
“As early as October 15, we approved a special permit for buses to travel on routes that are not theirs, on long routes like Bicol, in Cagayan and Laoag,” Guadiz said in Filipino.
“As of now, we have already given special permits to 1,200 buses, including UVs, that want to travel during this Undas season,” he added.
This figure, Guadiz said, may increase further as more operators apply for special permits.
“[This is to ensure the] safety, comfort, and convenience of all passengers traveling to their provinces to be with their families for the All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days,” he added.
LTFRB ready for influx of passengers
Guadiz also assured the public that the LTFRB is “well-prepared” for the influx of passengers during Undas.
“We are working closely with bus operators to ensure that all units are roadworthy and compliant with safety protocols,” he said.
“We have deployed personnel to monitor the implementation of fare regulations and to assist passengers at terminals, ensuring that there are sufficient buses to accommodate the expected surge of commuters,” he added.
The LTFRB will also inspect vehicles’ roadworthiness, including their papers and special permits at terminals.
Guadiz urged the public to plan their trips ahead to ensure a comfortable travel experience.
READ: LTFRB issues special bus, UV permits for ‘Undas’ travel surge