LTFRB to bus operators: Follow fare discounts

MANILA, Philippines — The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) will strengthen its monitoring of bus operators during the Undas exodus to ensure that drivers and conductors will comply with the 20-percent discount given to students, senior citizens and persons with disabilities.

Acting LTFRB Chairman Greg Pua Jr. said millions are expected to travel to their home provinces this week to visit their dead.

“We expect all bus operators to remind their drivers and conductors about the mandatory fare discount,” Pua said.

Bus firms that will not honor the fare discounts face suspension or cancellation of their LTFRB franchises, he said.

Republic Act 9994 governs the fare discount for seniors while RA 11314 covers students. The discount for PWDs falls under RA 10754.

The LTFRB has approved special permits for more than 1,000 passenger buses.

Pua extended the fare discount reminder to all public utility vehicles as commuters are expected to tap other modes of transportation.

In Cubao, Quezon City, Land Transportation Office (LTO) personnel inspected bus companies yesterday.

A bus driver tested positive for illegal drugs. LTO chief Markus Lacanilao recommended the revocation of the driver’s license. 

Three buses were accosted for using improvised license plates.