PUV operator faces suspension for joining rally

MANILA, Philippines - The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has summoned a public utility vehicle (PUV) operator after he joined a transport caravan to protest an administrative order which increases fines against colorum PUVs.

The Board issued a Show Cause Order on Leonardo Briones for allegedly violating the terms and conditions of his certificate of public convenience (CPC) when he joined the protest last June 18.

"Maliwanag na nakasaad sa terms and conditions ng kanilang mga prangkisa na labag sa batas ang pagsali sa mga protesta or transport strike na makakaapekto sa convenience ng ating mga mananakay,” LTFRB Chair Winston Ginez said.

He added that the Board will take legal actions against those violating their CPC terms and operators planning to take part in future similar transport protest.

Briones has been given ample time to file his answer and explain why his CPC should not be suspended or cancelled for violation of terms and conditions of his franchise.

Briones is directed to appear in a hearing set on August 6 in the Board’s office. Failure to attend shall be decided on the basis of the franchise records held by LTFRB.

Transport group Piston earlier clarified that the protest action against the implementation of the Joint Administrative Order which jack up the fines and penalties against colorum PUVs is not a strike but a picket rally.