The Philippine Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) called out four bus companies over poorly maintained passenger terminals found during surprise inspections in Quezon City on Tuesday, 27th January.
In a statement, LTFRB chair Vigor Mendoza II said a show cause order (SCO) has been issued to Belleza Transport Corporation, Mega Bus Lines Corporation, Eaglestar Transit Corporation, and Elavil Phils Tours Incorporated.
Via four separate SCOs, the bus companies have been ordered to explain in writing why their Certificate of Public Convenience should not be revoked.
Mendoza declared: “This is proof that we are serious when we said that we will run after those who do not comply with the basic standard on what bus terminals and public transportation must be.”
Critical violations
The inspection report showed that each company was found to have at least ten violations of the rules and regulations stipulated in the maintenance of passenger terminals, particularly the minimum requirements for a bus terminal.
Their violations include insufficient roofing to protect passengers from the sun and rain; no decent and separate restrooms for males, females, and persons with disability (PWD); insufficient security measures such as closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras and baggage inspections; and non-availability of PWD ramps and similar amenities for accessibility.
The surprise inspections were part of Mendoza’s crackdown against illegal terminals that serve as safe havens for public utility vehicles without a valid franchise.
The operation is meant to protect the rights of passengers for a safe and comfortable commuting experience.
Mendoza said: “The issuance of the SCO against four bus companies is just the beginning. Filipino commuters should expect daily monitoring and quick action from their LTFRB in the interest of their right for safe and comfortable travel experience.”
