LTFRB, LTO begin bus inspections for Holy Week

MANILA, Philippines – Beginning Monday, April 7, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) as well as the Land Transportation Office (LTO) will inspecting bus terminals in Manila to prepare for the coming Holy Week.

LTFRB Chairman Winston Ginez, other LTFRB members and the LTO will be dropping by bus terminals in Sampaloc, Dapitan, Espana and Lawton. Ginez said the inspections are part of the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) Oplan Exodus Ligtas Byahe 2014.

“LTFRB will conduct inspections on major bus terminals to ensure their units have the valid permits and pass road safety measures before they are allowed to operate,” said Ginez.

Typically, Metro Manila residents leave the city during Semana Santa or Holy Week. Maundy Thursday and Good Friday – April 17 and 18 – are regular holidays. Passengers volume typically doubles during the Holy Week, said Ginez.

Special bus permits will be issued by the LTFRB to avoid a shortage in buses during the Holy Week exodus from the metro.

Under instructions from DOTC Secretary Joseph “Jun” Abaya, only buses that pass the LTO’s roadworthiness will be allowed to travel to their destinations. Drivers and conductors will also be required to undergo random drug tests.

Other requirements that bus operators need to comply with are the following:

• Separate and clean male and female restrooms 
• Ventilated waiting areas 
• Security personnel to check luggage and to ensure passengers safety 
• First-aid kits 
• Fire extinguishers for emergencies

The LTFRB will also deploy help desks at terminals. Inspections will continue up until April 20. – Rappler.com