‘For slim only’ signs on passenger vans discriminatory—LTFRB

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Monday said that the “for slim only” signs found in the front seat of some UV Express passenger vans are discriminatory.

According to a Radyo Inquirer report, LTFRB board member Atty. Ariel Inton reminded drivers of public utility vehicles that they cannot discriminate against their passengers based on their age, sex or physical appearance.

Inton issued the reminder after receiving complaints from commuters assailing the “for slim only” rule.

Aside from discriminating against passengers due to their physical appearance, Inton said that some drivers even bar male passengers from taking the front seat.

He said that the said “rule” being imposed by some drivers is a violation of the Joint Administrative Order No. 2014-001 signed by the LTFRB and the Land Transportation Office.

Under the joint administrative order, a driver’s “refusal to render service to the public or convey passenger to destination” is a traffic violation.

For the first offense, the driver or operator is fined P5,000. For the second offense, the driver or operator is fined P10,000.00 and the passenger van is impounded for 30 days. For the third and subsequent offenses, a fine of P15,000 will be imposed and the certificate of public convenience may be cancelled. AJH with reports from Ricky Brozas, Radyo Inquirer/RAM/rga