Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) chairperson Atty. Vigor D. Mendoza II kicked off a series of surprise, regionwide inspections of transport terminals and public utility vehicles Saturday in Bacolod City.

The initiative is a key safety measure ahead of the All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days travel rush on 1 and 2 November 2025.

Mendoza’s inspection of the Ceres North Bus Terminal and the Bacolod North Bound Terminal falls under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to ensure road safety for the public.

“We want to make sure that all these transportation companies are really complying with the guidelines set by the LTFRB to ensure the convenience of the passengers,” Mendoza said, cited that they are addressing common passenger complaints early, anticipating the influx of travelers for Undas.

Mendoza personally inspected everything from waiting areas to comfort rooms at the two major terminals, warning that surprise inspections will now be conducted regularly, not just during holidays.

Upon assuming his post, the LTFRB chairman ordered all regional directors to begin inspections immediately. He instructed all bus companies and transport operators to ensure their terminals are safe and comfortable.

Beyond facilities, Mendoza stressed that all buses and public transport must be safe — including the vehicles, drivers and conductors.

In a related move, Mendoza also rode a passenger jeepney, following Transportation Secretary Giovanni Z. Lopez’s instruction for executives to personally experience public transport to identify and address common issues. Mendoza expects all LTFRB regional directors to do the same.

He stressed that inspections should be done regularly, “not just during Undas or Holy Week or Christmas,” for the benefit of commuters.

To enforce compliance, Mendoza announced that the agency will deploy mystery passengers nationwide starting 24 October to check terminal conditions and warned transport companies of consequences for failing to meet passengers’ basic needs.