‘Window’ closes, but more P2P buses open

The Department of Transportation and the Interagency Council on Traffic on Wednesday rolled out 18 new premium point-to-point (P2P) buses that will ply Edsa.

Officials hope the new buses will attract car users affected by the “no window” policy that bars vehicles from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.  from major thoroughfares under the number coding scheme.

The newly deployed fleet launched at TriNoma terminal raised the number of P2P buses plying Edsa to 48, said Christopher Bauer, chief executive officer of operator Froehlich Tours.

The new units include “VIP double deckers” that feature several amenities and are equipped with accommodations for persons with disabilities, such as a foldable ramp, low flooring and grab bars.

The no window policy, which is on a dry run until tomorrow, will be fully enforced on Oct. 17.

It applies to Edsa, C5, Roxas Boulevard and Alabang-Zabarte Road, and roads in Makati, Mandaluyong and Las Pinas

The double-decker buses will ply three routes: TriNoma to Glorietta 5, SM North Edsa to SM Megamall and Centris Mall to Glorietta 5. The customized VIP double deckers can accommodate 52 passengers in reclining sleeper seats with personal monitors equipped with movies and entertainment apps.

The lower floor features a VIP cabin with rest room, sofas, conference table and two 50-inch flatscreen television monitors with KTV functions.

Assistant Transport Secretary Mark de Leon said the government was looking into adding six more routes for the P2P buses.

Fare for the double deckers is P55. On weekends, 50-percent discount will be given, while discounts for senior citizens, PWDs and students will also be honored. Passengers can pay the fare using Beep cards or in cash.