9 UV Express apprehended for being dilapidated, stinky

Nine UV Express units have been apprehended under the government’s campaign against dilapidated and untidy public utility vehicles (PUVs), the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) said Saturday.

In a press release, the LTFRB said the units were identified after the agency’s Law Enforcement Unit deployed mystery riders last August 12.

The impounded vehicles were mostly plying the Bucalan-Metro Manila routes, according to the agency.

“Dilapidated, untidy, and stinky PUVs have no place in the country’s public transportation system. Hindi na puwede ngayon ang okay pa ('Just good enough' won't cut it anymore), either the operators would shape up, or be shipped out,” LTFRB Chairman Atty. Vigor D. Mendoza II said.

Mendoza added that more PUVs are expected to be apprehended if operators do not shape up and continue to allow dilapidated units to operate.

Most complaints filed by the mystery riders cited poor air-conditioning units, faded body markings, and unpleasant smells inside the vehicles—issues that were verified following the apprehension of the nine PUVs.

The LTFRB has issued Show Cause Orders (SCOs) to the nine UV Express operators for failing to provide comfortable service to the public. The orders require them to explain in writing why their franchises should not be suspended or revoked.

According to the agency, the cancellation of a Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC) means the operator will no longer be allowed to operate.

Buses, jeeps

Aside from UV Express, the LTFRB stated that it is also targeting taxis, buses, passenger jeepneys, and ride-hailing services with dilapidated, untidy, and foul-smelling units.

It added that SCOs have already been issued in relation to these violations.

In a recent inspection by Mendoza, at least three PUVs in Intramuros, Manila, were issued SCOs, according to the press release.

“We will do everything in our power to compel PUV operators to provide the best service they can give to the Filipino commuters because that is what they committed when they applied for the permit to operate,” Mendoza said.

The agency urges commuters to report any dilapidated or stinky PUVs they encounter, as well as erring and abusive drivers, through its hotline (1342) or official social media accounts. —VAL, GMA News