LTFRB issues special bus permits for INC centennial

MANILA, Philippines – The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) is issuing special permits to around 12,500 buses nationwide to transport an estimated one million members of Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) who would be attending the congregation's centennial anniversary on Sunday.

The event will be held in the newly-constructed Philippine Arena, the largest domed facility in the world, situated in Bocaue, Bulacan.

“As acknowledgement and respect on its contribution to its members and the country, the LTFRB, together with all other government agencies, has pledged full support to ensure the success of the celebration,” LTFRB chairman Winston Ginez said.

Preparations are in full swing for the event with INC chapters in various areas in the country arranging transport services to bring its members to the event.

Ginez said that it has come to their attention that a number of bus operators are taking advantage of the situation by raising their rates in anticipation of the event.

“We will not tolerate any kind of increase more than the rates these operators charged their other clients. Kami ho ay nananawagan sa mga bus operators na makipagtulungan sa INC at kung maari ay bigyan sila ng karampatang diskwento in the spirit of brotherhood and unity,” Ginez added.

The LTFRB through its central office, National Capital Region and other regional offices are now accepting applications for special bus permits. The permits will be valid from July 25 July up to August 2.

The special permits will be issued by the Board for the sole purpose of transporting INC members from their point of origin to their destination and back, subject to other terms and conditions that will be assigned by Task Force Sentenaryo and the INC.