Transport operators asked to follow regulations on ads

TRANSPORT operators in Central Visayas are given two weeks to remove advertisements placed in their public utility vehicles (PUVs) that do not conform with government rules.

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LFTRB) 7 is implementing the “Oplan Hubaran” which was first implemented in Manila yesterday.

LFTRB 7 Director Ahmed Cuizon admitted, though, that the problem of vehicles with illegal ads in Cebu is not as worse as in Manila.

“But we will still inform the operators regarding this one,” Cuizon told Cebu Daily News.

They will send letters to presidents of associations of buses, mini-buses, taxis, and public utility jeepneys so they can inform their members.

“We will give them fair chance and enough time to voluntarily remove the transit ads on their vehicles,” Cuizon said.

With “Oplan Hubaran,” the LTFRB goes after PUVs violating the prohibition on the installation of ads on their vehicles especially those covering windows and may affect the driver’s sight and range of view.

Last month, the LFTRB issued a new memorandum circular regulating transit ads, taking effect September 15.

LTFRB Chairman Winston Gimenez said the “Oplan Hubaran” campaign is aimed at eradicating offensive ads from the streets.

“Nais naming ipaalala sa mga operators ng pampublikong sasakyan na kaya sila binigyan ng prangkisa ng LFTRB para isakay at dalhin ang mga pasahero at mga produkto ng pangangalakal sa kanilang mga patutunguhan, at hindi para gamitin at mag silbing mga advertising billboards, (We want to remind operators that we issued them franchise to transport commuters and goods, and not so they can serve as mobile billboards),” he said.

The new circular provides that transit ads “must not impede, limit or obstruct in any way” the drivers’ line of sight and must not cover “the trade name, license plate number and the body number of the vehicle.”

Ads, according to the circular, must not make it difficult for the riding public to identify the PUV. For PUJs, ads shall be limited only to the top, while taxis are allowed to install the ads on top, rear and upper portion of the back windshield as long as these follow specific measurements.

Also, operators need to apply for a permit before installing the ads and must submit a copy of the advertising contract between the operator and the advertiser, as well as the advertising agency.

Violators will be apprehended and penalized. First time offenders will have to pay P10,000 and P20,000 for second offenders. Those who violate the rule for the third time will face revocation of their permits.