LTFRB summons 10 transport terminal operators in Ilocos over poor facilities

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Wednesday summoned 10 more operators of bus and public utility vehicle (PUV) terminals in Pangasinan and La Union over allegedly poor facilities.

In a statement, LTFRB chair Vigor Mendoza II said they issued show cause orders (SCOs) to the terminal operators following a surprise inspection by its regional office in the Ilocos Region.

“We will continue to conduct operations until all of the terminal operators comply with the basic rights of commuters for a safe and comfortable commuting experience,” he said.

The SCOs were issued to four terminal operators each in Alaminos City and Dagupan City in Pangasinan, and two terminal operators in San Fernando City, La Union.

Among the alleged violations of the bus and PUV terminals were a lack of roofing, functional comfort rooms, surveillance cameras, and security personnel.

Some terminals also lacked facilities to protect passengers from incoming and outgoing vehicles and accessibility facilities for persons with disabilities (PWDs) and senior citizens.

The terminal operators were told to explain in writing why their facilities should not be shut down. The LTFRB will also schedule hearings to investigate the alleged violations.

“We will put an end to this. What is normal is for these terminal operators to be mindful of the comfort and security of the passengers. They must comply or face closure of operations,” Mendoza said.

Last week, the agency issued SCOs and notices to comply for 116 transport terminal operators all over the country and ordered them to explain and fix their run-down terminals. — JMA, GMA Integrated News