Special permits needed for PUVs to resume operations in GCQ areas, says LTFRB

As some areas will have a more relaxed travel restriction protocol under general community quarantine (GCQ) beginning on Friday, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has required public utility vehicles (PUV) to secure a special permit.

“Kailangan sila kumuha ng special permit. Hindi po ibig sabihin na kahit may prangkisa ‘yan, papayagan,” LTFRB chairman Martin Delgra III said in a virtual presser on Thursday.

“Kailangan pa rin po ng special permit dahil po sa karagdagang terms and conditions imposed by the IATF (Inter-Agency Task Force),” Delgra said.

The LTFRB chief said PUV operators can apply for special permits at the agency’s regional offices as well as in its central office.

Securing a special permit from the LTFRB is free for the entire duration of the GCQ or from May 1 until May 15, 2020.

“Handa ang regional offices na magbigay ng special permit,” Delgra said.

However, he said, those will be allowed to operate are only “roadworthy” PUVs. -- BAP, GMA News

“Strict instruction din ni Secretary Tugade na bago papayagan ang isang unit, kailangan po roadworthy, dadaan muna sa LTO (Land Transportation Office) na inspection,” Delgra said.

The LTFRB chief added that priority will be given to vehicles which can accomodate larger number of passengers.

“The direction of the Secretary Tugade is to prioritize buses that will be given special permits,” Delgra said.