Authorities start inspecting bus terminals for Holy Week trips 

(Updated 3:00 p.m.) Authorities on Thursday started inspecting bus terminals in Metro Manila, ahead of the yearly Holy Week exodus to the provinces.

On Thursday morning, the Land Transportation Office inspected the Araneta Bus Terminal in Quezon City, DZBB radio's Allan Gatus reported.

But an updated report on Thursday noon said some bus operators may have gotten wind of the inspection, as only a few buses were at the terminal when the LTO team arrived.

Still, the team barred one bus from leaving the terminal after finding its tires were worn.

The LTO allowed the bus to ply its route after an hour, after crews replaced the tires.

For Thursday, the LTO team inspected 27 buses, the DZBB report said.

On the other hand, the report said the LTO vowed to conduct more inspections as Holy Week draws closer.

In the coming weeks, many Filipinos are expected to flock to the provinces not only to spend the summer vacation but also to observe the Holy Week.

The LTO and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board are taking steps to make sure public utility vehicles bound for the provinces are roadworthy, especially in the wake of recent fatal accidents involving buses.

Last February, a passenger bus fell into a ravine in Mountain Province, killing more than 10 people including comedian Arvin "Tado" Jimenez. — Joel Locsin/LBG/BM, GMA News