Stricter protocols in transport industry amid Alert Level 3 in NCR
THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) on Sunday, January 2, 2022, directed bus companies, PUV operators and transport terminals in the National Capital Region (NCR) to impose tighter health protocols as the region was placed under Alert Level 3 startingJanuary 3, 2022 until January 15, 2022 following a spike in COVID-19 cases.
In its memorandum issued on January 2, 2022, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) reminded land-based transportation stakeholders to closely supervise their drivers and conductors, and ensure that they strictly adhere to health protocols particularly the 70% maximum passenger capacity public utility vehicles (PUVs).
The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) likewise issued a memorandum dated 2 January, calling on PUV operators, drivers and passengers to follow the 7 Commandments for Public Transport and to observe the 70% maximum passenger capacity order in PUVs.
The LTFRB warned that the non-observance of health protocols onboard PUVs or a violation the 70% maximum passenger capacity order are considered violations of franchise conditions. Penalties for violating PUV franchise conditions range from hefty fines to the impounding of the involved PUV.
The LTFRB also warned PUV drivers who will not enforce the 70 percent maximum passenger capacity rule, as well as the strict health protocols in their vehicles, that their driver’s licenses may be suspended. Erring drivers may also face additional criminal complaints.
Transportation Secretary Art Tugade explained that the 70% maximum passenger capacity will remain in NCR to keep pace with the demand for public transport services.
Tugade pointed out that any adjustments or changes of the allowable maximum passenger capacity in public transportation will be subject to the guidance of the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF).
