LTFRB to strictly implement policy on installing GPS devices in buses

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) will strictly implement its policy on the installation of global positioning system (GPS) devices in buses.

The directive as issued after the Court of Appeals issued a decision declaring the LTFRB memo circulars on the installation of GPS devices in buses to promote road safety as constitutional.

"Paramount consideration po ng gobyerno ay ang... not only the convenience but safety as well of the riding public," LTFRB board member Aileen Lizada said in a report on State of the Nation with Jessica Soho by Saleema Refran on Monday.

"GPS, speed limiter, dashcam, CCTV... lahat po ito ay kailangan para mamonitor natin hindi lang ang sasakyan pati po 'yung safety ng ating riding public," Lizada added.

The LTFRB said this should also be implemented in other public utility vehicles (PUVs), according to the report.

Some buses at the Araneta Center Bus Station already have GPS devices as bus drivers find it helpful in avoiding road accidents.

"Para malaman kung mabilis ang takbo mo o hindi. Nakakatulong po para maiwasan ang aksidente," said bus driver Edwin Rodriguez.

Data from the Philippine National Police Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG) showed that more than 2,000 buses were involved in road mishaps in 2017.

Meanwhile, passengers expressed support for the use of GPS devices to ensure the safety of the public.

"Mas maganda nga 'yung ganon kasi nakikita 'yung speed eh," one passenger said.

"Mas okay po siya kasi mas safe siya at mamo-monitor 'yung galaw ng bus, kung nasan na," another one added. — Anna Felicia Bajo/BAP, GMA News