S. Mindanao bus firms protest LTFRB move

DAVAO CITY — Bus operators in Southern Mindanao are up in arms against the entry of two Manila-based bus companies in the region, claiming this will result in more losses to the already ailing local transport industry.

The Southern Mindanao Bus Operators Association (SMBOA) is opposing the granting by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board of permits to the Tritan and Philtranco bus firms to operate in the region.

Employees of SMBOA member-firms have picketed the Overland Terminal at the Ecoland Subdivision here to air their protest.

SMBOA cited reports that the two bus firms will start fielding at least 500 units next month to routes serviced by its member-companies.

SMBOA said its member-firms have been incurring heavy losses due to the continuing economic crisis and the rising cost of fuel products.

"Now, here comes these giant companies which want to get a share of the very small pie that we have here in the region. What will happen to us if we allow them to come in," said one of the protesting operators.

The bus operators have also been complaining of the continued collection of "revolutionary taxes" by communist guerrillas operating in the region. — Edith Regalado