1K buses granted special permits for Holy Week
EXPECTING a surge of travelers during the Lenten season, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board has granted special permits to more than 1,000 buses to accommodate more province-bound vacationers.
According to LTFRB chairperson Teofilo Guadiz III, a series of inspection will also be conducted to ensure a safe and orderly trip for the Holy Week exodus.
As of April 8, a total of 1,018 special permits have been issued to augment the supply of provincial buses during the peak travel period.
He said the special permits are valid from April 11 to 27, covering the Holy Week and the days immediately after.
To complement this, the agency has already begun conducting random inspections of public utility vehicles (PUVs) and transport terminals, checking the validity of operators’ documents including permits, fare matrices, vehicle markings, and safety accessories.
Guadiz III said the inspections started on April 7 and will continue throughout the travel rush.
“Ang paalala po namin sa mga pasahero ngayong Holy Week ay magplano nang maaga. I-check ang schedules ng biyahe at tiyaking maayos na ang mga tiket at ibang necessary documents,” the LTFRB chair said.
The agency he added, will also monitor private terminals starting April 11 to ensure the presence of help desks and sufficient personnel to assist passengers.
Aside from enforcement efforts, Guadiz warned the public against using unregistered vehicles, which pose safety risks.
“Iwasan din sana natin ang pagsakay sa mga ‘colorum’ o illegal na mga sasakyan dahil ang mga ito ay hindi dumaan sa tamang inspeksyon at walang insurance coverage para sa pasahero,” he said.
Guadiz also reminded passengers to continue practicing basic health precautions during their trips, even if face masks are no longer required.
Travelers are also encouraged to carry hygiene kits, alcohol, and face masks for their protection, especially in crowded areas.
The LTFRB said it is ready to respond to public concerns and urged passengers to report any complaints through its 24/7 hotline at 1342, official Facebook page, or via email at [email protected].
AUTHOR PROFILE
Nation
