Transport group to LTFRB: Open 'main thoroughfare' routes for PUJs

A group of public transportation operators urged the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board  to open routes in “main thoroughfares” for public utility jeepneys to help COVID-hit drivers recover and serve more commuters.

“Gusto ko po maiparating to kagalang-galang na Chairman ng LTFRB [Martin Delgra] at kay [Transportation] Secretary [Arthur] Tugade na ang main thoroughfare na ruta ng mga jeepney ay sana naman po ay makapagpasada na po sila nang sa gayon hindi na namamalimos sa kalasada ang mga kasamahan sa jeepney transport sector,” Liga ng Transportasyon at Operators ng Pilipinas (LTOP) president Orlando Marquez said during the Laging Handa public briefing on Saturday.

Marquez, particularly identified routes frequented by many commuters, and promised that the public transportation sector is strictly following government’s health protocols to avoid the further spread of COVID-19.

“‘Yung mga ruta ng biyaheng Cubao hanggang Antipolo, Pasig hanggang Quiapo, Alabang-Zapote-Baclaran na napakaraming tao gaya rin ng Guadalupe hanggang FTI,” the transport group's leader said.

“Libo-libo po ang tao na lumalabas na ho ngayon," Marquez added. 

"Mayroon kaming face mask, face shield, alcohol pati listahan... Kami po ay nakahandang sumunod sa protocol kaya kami po ay idinadaing po kasi sa hanay ng PUJ ang aming estimate na nakatanggap ay umaabot nang wala pang 20% sa nakatanggap sa ating pangulo," he said.

The LTOP also urged the LTFRB to allow jeepneys to operate and serve routes to and from Metro Manila and its nearby provinces.

Late last month, the LTFRB allowed 1,333 public utility jeepneys to operate in 23 routes in Metro Manila as the region shifts back to general community quarantine. 

This is on top of the 968 jeepneys allowed by the regulator to operate in 15 routes. —LBG, GMA News