LTFRB orders terminal inspections ahead of Undas exodus

Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) Chairman Atty. Vigor D. Mendoza II on Thursday directed all regional directors to begin inspections of bus and transport terminals nationwide in preparation for the expected surge of passengers for All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day on 1 and 2 November.

Mendoza said the directive is in line with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr.’s instruction to ensure passenger comfort and safety during the Undas exodus.

“All bus companies and transport operators were also instructed to make sure that their respective terminals and stations are safe and comfortable for their passengers,” he said.

“Tapusin na natin yung nakagawian na parang utang na loob pa ng mga pasahero na sumakay sa mga bus at mga pampublikong sasakyan. Your passengers are your lifeline in business, respect them with clean, presentable and comfortable waiting areas,” Mendoza said.

“We will also make sure that all buses and other public transport vehicles are safe—from the vehicles to the drivers and conductors—to ensure that passengers will go to their destinations safe and comfortable,” he added.

Mendoza also reminded bus station and transport company managers to ensure the cleanliness and accessibility of comfort rooms.

“In particular, CRs must be functioning properly, well lighted and well ventilated at no cost or minimal cost to passengers,” he said.

He stressed that providing comfortable and convenient waiting areas for passengers is now a standard LTFRB requirement.

“Under our watch, this will be a regular thing. Hindi lang pang Undas, Pasko o Semana Santa. We will require random checking at least every month of the year,” Mendoza said.

The LTFRB chief also emphasized that the booking process should be efficient and that personnel should treat passengers courteously.

“Nakikiusap din tayo sa mga bus companies na i-remind ang kanilang mga empleyado na huwag magsusungit sa mga pasahero. Titiyakin natin na susundin nila ito,” he said.

To ensure compliance, Mendoza said mystery passengers will be deployed nationwide starting 24 October to inspect bus stations and transport terminals.