Pets can now ride in public transport with their owners —LTFRB

Pets are now allowed inside public utility vehicles (PUVs) provided that they are in cages or animal carriers, according to guidelines released by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).

According to Memorandum Circular 2020-003 of the LTFRB, pet animals such as cats and dogs are allowed to be loaded and transported on PUVs effective February 10.

Dated January 27, 2020, a copy of the MC was uploaded online by Ang Probinsyano party-list Representative Ronnie Ong.

The MC, however, provides the following conditions:

•     If pet animals are to be loaded on mass transport, without having to compromise safety, health issues, and convenience of other passengers, said pet animals must be put in a cage or animal carrier free from the foul odor.
•     Passenger-owner must ensure that pets wear animal diapers to maintain cleanliness and sanitation at all times during the journey.
•     Dog sizes must be the range of small to medium, as large and giant dogs will not be allowed.
•     Pets placed inside carriers or cages must be beside the passenger-owner, and must pay the corresponding fare the same as that of the paying passenger owner per seat occupied.

PUVs include public utility buses (PUBs), jeepneys (PUJs), UV Express services, and premium point-to-point bus services, among others.

The MC was signed by LTFRB chairman Martin Ddelgra III and Board members Ronald Corpus and Antonio Gardiola. —LDF, GMA News