LTFRB prepares for post-holiday passenger surge

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has placed its personnel on alert in anticipation of the return of millions of commuters following the Christmas and New Year holidays.

LTFRB Chairperson Atty. Vigor D. Mendoza II said bus companies and other transport operators have been directed to ensure the roadworthiness of their vehicles ahead of the expected passenger surge.

Mendoza said compliance will be checked through random and surprise inspections to be conducted in coordination with other government agencies.

“Our goal is to ensure not only the roadworthiness of public utility vehicles but also the readiness of drivers—all are intended to prevent road crashes,” Mendoza said.

At least two fatal road crashes were recorded during the recent holiday exodus. Mendoza said the agency is aiming to prevent similar incidents as passengers return to urban areas.

He also instructed regional directors to respond immediately to commuter complaints, particularly those involving taxi drivers. The LTFRB said it will monitor compliance among taxi operators and ride-hailing services at bus terminals, seaports, and airports nationwide.

“Tututukan natin yung mga reklamo ng pagiging isnabero at pangongontrata ng ilang mga taxi drivers lalo na yung mga nasa airport,” Mendoza said.

(“We will closely monitor complaints about taxi drivers refusing passengers or charging fixed fares, especially those operating at airports.”)

Mendoza urged commuters to report violations through the LTFRB hotline at 0956-761-0739, saying complaints help authorities identify and address erring drivers.

“Lalakas ang loob ng mga tiwaling PUV drivers kung walang magrereklamo. Magtulungan tayo tungkol sa bagay na ito,” he said.

(“Erring public utility vehicle drivers become more emboldened if no one files complaints. We need to work together on this.”)