LTFRB fast-tracks permits for 1,003 Undas buses

MANILA, Philippines — The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) is fast-tracking special permit applications for 1,003 buses ahead of the All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day holidays.

Acting LTFRB Chairman Greg Pua said the board received 356 applications covering the buses, which will serve routes in various parts of the country during the Undas period.

“We are reviewing all the data that we have to determine the appropriate number of passenger buses that will be given special permits,” Pua said.

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The number of applications and buses is higher than last year’s 323 applications covering 847 buses, indicating increased demand for travel to and from the provinces, the LTFRB said.

Special permits allow additional public utility vehicles to operate beyond their regular routes during periods of increased passenger demand. If approved, the permits will be valid from Oct. 28 to Nov. 6.

Pua said the board would check the roadworthiness of buses before approving the permits and require operators to ensure their drivers are mentally and physically fit to drive.

The LTFRB also warned that operators may be penalized for reckless driving by their drivers.

Regional Franchising and Regulatory Office personnel were also ordered to inspect bus terminals and ensure compliance with basic passenger facility requirements.

“We ask the operators to just comply with the commitment they made when they applied not only for special permits but also for the operation of terminals,” Pua said.

The LTFRB said transport firms and terminal operators were penalized last year for operating “dilapidated transport terminals.” /ja