83 special permits issued for buses  for Lenten break

CEBU, Philippines — At least 83 buses have been granted special permits by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB)-7 to operate outside their regular routes during the Holy Week as part of the government’s “Biyaheng Ayos 2025” initiative.

The permits are intended to accommodate the expected surge in passengers traveling to the provinces during the Lenten break. This was revealed during the Kapihan sa PIA forum on Wednesday, where various government agencies presented their respective safety and security measures for the Holy Week observance.

Eugenio Ibo Jr., transportation development officer of LTFRB-7, said that the issuance of special permits is part of the efforts to ensure there are enough public utility vehicles to meet increased demand. He added that LTFRB personnel have been actively inspecting buses at terminals to verify their documents and assess roadworthiness.

"Operators may still visit the LTFRB-7 office to secure a special permit," Ibo said.

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is also on heightened alert from April 13 to 20. LTJG Abel Jan Lomboy, Command Center Director of PCG District Central Visayas, said they are anticipating an influx of passengers at seaports and are implementing stricter security protocols.

Meanwhile, the Police Regional Office (PRO)-7 has ramped up its presence across Central Visayas. Police Colonel Arvie Paraon-Bueno, spokesperson of PRO-7, said more officers have been deployed to key areas including terminals, highways, and places of worship. Help desks will also be established in terminals and seaports to assist commuters.

Land Transportation Office (LTO)-7 Assistant Director Arturo Apolinar said the agency will conduct inspections at both the north and south bus terminals to ensure safety compliance among bus operators. –FPL (CEBU NEWS)