Despite the expected influx of travelers returning to the provinces this Holy Week, Senate Committee on Public Services Chairperson Senator Raffy Tulfo reminded the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and other agencies to ensure the safety and security of passengers.
Tulfo emphasized during the committee hearing held recently that it is crucial for the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to conduct regular inspections of bus terminals to ensure that the buses set to travel are roadworthy — especially since the legislator recently discovered numerous violations by bus operators and terminals during his own inspection.
“You should step out of your air-conditioned offices to witness the real situation of passengers and take action to prevent the operation of old and run-down buses.”
According to LTFRB Executive Director Robert Peig, they are currently understaffed and unable to conduct regular inspections. However, the lawmaker insisted that they should step out of their air-conditioned offices to witness the real situation of passengers and take action to prevent the operation of old and run-down buses.
The senator reminded them not to neglect checking essential parts such as tires, brake systems, fire extinguishers, and more. Peig agreed and said he would require personnel from their regional offices to carry out regular terminal inspections.
“All bus terminals must have security personnel equipped with handheld metal detectors to inspect passengers who may be carrying weapons or contraband, to prevent any trouble.”
On another note, Tulfo also told Peig that all bus terminals must have security personnel equipped with handheld metal detectors to inspect passengers who may be carrying weapons or contraband, to prevent any trouble.
There were previous reports involving buses losing brakes. Because of this, Tulfo also instructed Peig to have their personnel visit the motor pools of bus companies to ensure that qualified mechanics are doing the maintenance work.
This is also a way to check the service records of bus units and ensure they are roadworthy–not just moving coffins on the streets, he said.
Peig promised they would immediately coordinate with the Land Transportation Office (LTO) to strengthen the monitoring of bus roadworthiness.
In addition, the LTRFB official committed to Tulfo that they would issue a memorandum to all regional and central offices to implement the senator’s recommendations regarding the safety and security of terminals and buses.
