LTFRB cracks down on overloaded PUVs

MANILA, Philippines — The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has reiterated its warning to public utility vehicle (PUV) operators against passenger overloading.

The LTFRB said it would enforce stricter fines and penalties under the “Anti-Sardines” campaign.

The initiative, which refers to the overloading of passengers in a manner akin to being packed like sardines, seeks to improve commuter safety and comfort by ensuring strict adherence to capacity limits based on vehicle specifications.

The LTFRB reminded PUV operators to comply with passenger capacity rules outlined in the agency’s guidelines.

Asian utility vehicles such as Mitsubishi Adventure and Isuzu Crosswind as well as UV Express units are limited to nine passengers, including the driver.

Regular vans such as Toyota Hi-Ace, Nissan Urvan Shuttle and Hyundai Grace may carry up to 10 passengers.

Extended vans such as Nissan Urvan and Toyota Hi-Ace are allowed to transport up to 12 passengers, provided this does not exceed the manufacturer’s stated capacity.

Traditional and modern jeepneys are permitted to transport 12 to 32 passengers, depending on the vehicle design and manufacturer’s specifications.

Standing passengers are allowed for modern jeepneys only if space permits and must not exceed five people per square meter of standing room.

Public utility buses are allowed to carry 50 passengers or more, depending on the manufacturer’s limits.

Like modern jeepneys, buses may accommodate standing passengers within the five-person-per-square-meter rule, but standing passengers are strictly not allowed on long-distance or intercity routes.

The LTFRB said the total number of passengers, whether seated or standing, must not exceed the capacity markings displayed on the vehicle.

“Failure to comply with these guidelines shall warrant the imposition of corresponding fines and suspension or cancellation of certificates of public convenience,” the LTFRB said.