THE Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has issued show cause orders (SCOs) against 21 operators of passenger buses and UV Express units following a series of aggressive enforcement operations across Metro Manila.
Acting LTFRB Chairman Greg Pua Jr. revealed that operations specifically targeted erring bus drivers on the EDSA Bus Carousel, as well as operators allowing worn-out and foul-smelling UV Express units to continue plying their routes.
“Public utility vehicle operators are mandated to comply with a set of conditions — all of which are grounded in road safety and the professionalism of the country’s public land transportation system,” said Pua.
“Accountability now falls upon those who chose to defy or ignore these conditions, and that is precisely what the LTFRB has enforced in the case of these 21 bus and UV Express operators,” he added.
The intensified law enforcement operations included covert deployments of “mystery riders” along the EDSA busway carousel to monitor drivers who deliberately slow down their buses — a practice that disrupts the flow of public transport.
LTFRB enforcers were also tasked with addressing the “push and pull” tactic employed by bus drivers, which contributes to the deliberate bunching of buses at stations, Pua said.
Enforcers likewise strictly implemented the 30-second loading and unloading rule at designated stops, according to the LTFRB.
Several SCOs have been issued for violations along the EDSA Busway, including the apprehension of two drivers and a bus conductor caught smoking inside their vehicle — a clear breach of passenger safety and comfort regulations, the acting LTFRB chief said.
Also, a number of SCOs were directed at UV Express operators for allowing dilapidated units to remain in service, particularly on routes from Bulacan to Metro Manila, following numerous complaints.
Violations cited included nonfunctioning air-conditioning systems, faded paintwork, worn-out seating and unpleasant odors inside the vehicles, the agency said.
All operators named in the SCOs were directed to explain why their franchises should not be revoked or suspended for the infractions.
Pua advised all PUV operators to ensure strict compliance with the conditions set for safe and comfortable transportation in order to avoid penalties and other sanctions.