LTFRB orders structural integrity checks of transport hubs in Mindanao's quake-hit areas

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has ordered the conduct of structural integrity inspections of public transportation hubs in areas affected by the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that hit off the coast of Sarangani on Monday morning.

In a statement, LTFRB chair Vigor Mendoza II said this is on top of the mandatory inspection of the agency’s offices in the Davao Region and SOCCSKSARGEN, which were badly hit by the tremor.

“We want to ensure the safety of both the passengers and our partners in the PUV sector through a thorough inspection on the structural integrity of bus terminals and other land transportation hubs,” Mendoza said.

“The earthquake was so strong and with the PHIVOLCS warning of more aftershocks, we just want to ensure that everybody is safe for worst-case scenarios,” he added.

The Regional Franchising and Regulatory Offices (RFROs) in quake-hit areas were ordered to coordinate with local government units (LGUs) in coordinating the structural integrity inspections.

In particular, the heads of the RFROs in the two regions were tasked to collaborate with LGUs, through engineering offices, and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to check all bus terminals and other public utility vehicle (PUV) hubs.

They should also coordinate with transportation terminal owners and operators in conducting the inspection.

Immediately after Monday morning’s earthquake, Mendoza ordered the RFROs to check on the condition of their personnel.

“The safety and well-being of our personnel and all our clients are of paramount concern and as such, I have already suspended the operation of our offices especially in severely-affected areas,” he said.

Mendoza said the RFROs in the affected areas were told to continue monitoring the situation and come up with contingency plans.

“On my part as the LTFRB Chairman, I assure all our personnel of all the necessary assistance if you need them. We are one with you in this time of challenge,” he added. — JMA, GMA News