The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Tuesday issued a stern reminder to all public utility vehicle (PUV) operators and drivers — including tricycles and transport network vehicle service (TNVS) providers — to strictly honor the 20 percent student fare discount as millions return to school this June.

LTFRB Chairperson Atty. Teofilo Guadiz III said the directive forms part of the Department of Transportation’s (DOTr) “Balik-Eskwela” enforcement campaign and supports the administration’s broader goal of reducing transport costs for Filipino families.

Guadiz emphasized that the 20 percent student discount is not optional and must be granted on all regular school days, including during summer classes. This applies to all land transport modes, including jeepneys, buses, UV Express, taxis, and TNVS units — regardless of whether fares are paid in cash or through digital platforms.

Guadiz reiterated that the mandate is clear and backed by law, warning that drivers and operators who refuse to comply will face penalties.

“We are reminding all drivers and operators that the 20 percent student fare discount is not optional. It is a right enshrined in law, and violations will be met with strict penalties,” he said.

The policy is anchored on Republic Act No. 11314 or the Student Fare Discount Act, which was signed into law in 2019.

Guadiz explained that the law allows for fines of up to P5,000 for first-time violators. Repeat offenders may face suspension or revocation of their franchises or permits, depending on the severity and frequency of the offense.

The LTFRB emphasized that compliance with this policy is part of the agency’s responsibility to uphold the President’s directive to protect vulnerable sectors, particularly students who rely on public transport for their daily commute.

The discount applies exclusively to students currently enrolled in basic education (elementary to senior high school), technical-vocational institutions, and college or undergraduate university programs. It does not apply to post-graduate students or individuals enrolled in short-term non-degree programs.

To avail of the discount, students must present a valid school ID or proof of current enrollment when boarding the vehicle.

Guadiz also called on the public to remain vigilant and report any violations.

“We urge all operators and drivers to comply, and we also call on the public — especially students and parents — to be vigilant. Report violators to LTFRB hotlines or through the LTFRB Citizen’s Complaint Center,” he said.

The agency noted it is working closely with local government units, schools, and transport cooperatives to ensure widespread awareness and compliance.

Student organizations and commuter groups have welcomed the LTFRB’s move.

Miguel Santos, spokesperson of the Student Commuters Alliance, said the renewed enforcement campaign is both timely and necessary.

“Every peso counts, especially for students commuting daily. This law exists to protect their rights, and we’re glad the LTFRB is taking this seriously,” he said.

As part of its enforcement efforts, the LTFRB announced that it will conduct random inspections and surveillance operations at transport terminals and key routes.

These measures are intended to ensure full compliance with the law and the President’s directive to safeguard student welfare through accessible and affordable public transportation.