By Tony Chavez
The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has granted special permits to 753 units as it prepares for the expected volume of passengers traveling for the observance of Undas this year.
LTFRB Chairperson Atty. Teofilo Guadiz III announced the board had issued 272 special permits equivalent to 753 buses.
The figure may increase as more operators applied for special permits last Tuesday, Guadiz added.
Guadiz pointed out that the special permits are valid from October 25 to November 10, 2024.
According to the chairperson, additional special permits may also be issued if the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) determines that additional buses are needed.
"As early as October 15, nag-approve po kami ng special permit para sa mga buses po na makabiyahe po sa mga hindi nila ruta, doon po sa mga mahahabang ruta like Bicol, sa Cagayan and Laoag," said Quadiz.
"Meaning to say po, may special permits na po kaming binigay to as many as … as of now ho, may 1,200 bus na po kaming binigyan ng special permits including mga UVs po na gustong bumiyahe nitong panahon ng Undas," Guadiz added.
The LTFRB chief said the move ensures the safety, comfort, and convenience of all passengers traveling to their provinces to be with their families for the All Saints' and All Souls' Days.
"In anticipation of the increased volume of travelers, we have ramped up our preparations through intensified inspections at bus terminals nationwide," Guadiz said.
LTFRB is well-prepared
Guadiz assured the public that the agency is well prepared for the influx of passengers during the holidays when Filipinos are expected to travel across cities and provinces for their departed loved ones.
He said they coordinate with bus operators to ensure safe travel for the riding public.
"We are working closely with bus operators to ensure that all units are roadworthy and compliant with safety protocols," said Guadiz.
"Also, we have deployed personnel to monitor the implementation of fare regulations and to assist passengers at terminals, ensuring that there are sufficient buses to accommodate the expected surge of commuters," Guadiz added.
The LTFRB head also said the roadworthiness of the vehicles, including their papers and special permits, will be checked at terminals.
He added that road inspectors will also check on drivers to ensure they are not intoxicated, as an on-the-spot alcoholic sobriety test will be done.
He assured Filipino commuters that the LTFRB would be deploying personnel to monitor the situation on the ground.
'Plan your trips'
The LTFRB chairperson also told passengers to plan their trips to make their travel more comfortable.
He likewise encouraged them to remain vigilant and report irregularities during their trip to the authorities.
"Our team will be on the ground throughout the holiday period to ensure smooth and efficient transportation services, and we encourage the public to report any irregularities," Guadiz said.
"And we urge everyone to plan their trips early and travel responsibly. Together, let us ensure a safe, peaceful, and meaningful observance of Undas," he added.
Guadiz stressed that the LTFRB remains vigilant in safeguarding the rights and safety of every passenger.
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