LTO, LTFRB to conduct "Oplan Ligtas Biyahe"

CEBU, Philippines - The Land Transportation Office-7 and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board-7 is yet to agree on the date when they will start inspecting school buses as part of the transport agencies' "Oplan Ligtas Biyahe" in time for the opening of classes next month.

LTFRB-7 regional director Ahmed Cuizon and LTO-7 regional director Raul Aguilos both said they still have to agree on the schedule but inspections will be definitely done before classes begin.

Classes for public schools are scheduled to start on June 3 while most private schools start their classes on June 10.

Last year, both agencies inspected school buses to check the school's possible violations, impose proper sanctions and recommend proper measures to ensure safety among the students who usually ride the school buses.

A school bus without a franchise will be impounded by LTFRB or a fine of P6,000 per violation will be imposed.

Aside from no franchise, LTFRB will also check whether the existing buses with franchises have fire extinguishers and proper exit points which should be on the right side as other school buses have exits on the left side and is considered very dangerous especially among the little schoolchildren.

A franchise fee costs less than P10,000 and is valid for five years per unit.

Aguilos added that a random drug testing will also be conducted as part of their road safety program.  (FREEMAN)