Bus inspections start for Lent break exodus

MANILA, Philippines–Transport authorities on Saturday started the thorough inspection of passenger buses bound for the provinces to ensure their safety for Lenten break travelers.

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) launched Oplan Ligtas Biyahe by checking 73 buses at terminals in Cubao, Quezon City, and in Batangas and Cavite provinces. On Day One alone, 14 buses were found to have broken backlights, two with broken windows, eight without fire extinguishers and 14 with defective seatbelts, the LTFRB said.

Other buses were also cited for not having “No Smoking’’ signs, fare matrix displays and markings designating seats for people with disabilities, the agency added. Of all the buses inspected, only one complied with the LTFRB requirement for a bus to display markings indicating the agency’s hotline for complaints. That offense alone carries a P1,000 fine, the  LTFRB said.–Rima Granali