Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) Chairman Atty. Vigor D. Mendoza II inspected several bus terminals in Bacolod City on Saturday, 18 October, marking the start of a series of surprise inspections across the region as part of safety preparations for All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days (Undas) on 1 and 2 November.

Mendoza said the move is in line with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s directive to ensure road safety and commuter welfare during the holiday rush. Among the terminals inspected were the Ceres North Bus Terminal and the Bacolod North Bound Terminal.

“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.

“Palapit na ng palapit ang Undas at napakarami sa ating mga kababayan ang magbi-biyahe na naman. This early, tinutugunan na natin yung usual na mga reklamo sa mga bus terminals,” he added.

Mendoza personally inspected waiting areas, restrooms, and other facilities, warning that surprise inspections will now be conducted regularly. He also directed LTFRB regional offices to intensify inspections on transport terminals in preparation for the influx of passengers.

All transport operators were instructed to ensure that terminals are safe, clean, and comfortable for passengers, and that their fleets, drivers, and conductors are fit for operation.

In the same visit, Mendoza rode a passenger jeepney, following DOTr Secretary Giovanni Z. Lopez’s directive for officials to experience public transportation firsthand and propose solutions to commuter concerns.

Mendoza said he expects all LTFRB regional directors to follow suit, noting that the inspections should not be limited to major holidays.

“Hindi lang tuwing Undas o Mahal na Araw o Pasko. Regular na dapat ginagawa ang inspection para sa ikakabuti ng ating mga pasahero,” he said.

To ensure compliance, mystery passengers will be deployed nationwide starting 24 October to check the condition of bus stations and transport terminals. Mendoza also warned transport companies of consequences if they fail to address passengers’ basic needs.