DOTr: 1,200 special permits issued to augment bus supply for Undas

MANILA – The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has issued 1,200 special permits for provincial buses nationwide ahead of the expected increase in passenger traffic during the All Saints’ Day holiday, Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Giovanni Lopez said on Monday.

According to Lopez, more permits could be issued depending on requests from bus companies.

“That is a testament na merong tayong enough supply pagdating sa public land transport natin. Makakasiguro ang ating mga kababayan na merong mga buses para makauwi sila sa kanilang probinsiya,” he said at the sidelines of the Economic Journalists Association of the Philippines Infrastructure Forum.

Over the past few weeks, some bus lines have reduced trips amid rising oil prices. Lopez, however, said the fare hike for provincial buses has helped operators cope with higher fuel costs.

The DOTr is now monitoring preparations at bus terminals, seaports, and airports to ensure that transport operators are ready for the holiday rush.

Lopez urged travelers to plan their trips early as well.

“Pag uuwi kayo ng probinsiya, bumili na po kayo ng inyong ticket as early as now. Meron din tayong online reservation. Tangkilikin po natin yan para sa ganun ay sa araw ng inyong biyahe, hindi na kayo maging chance passenger at hindi rin masayang ang oras ninyo sa mga terminal,” he said.

Although overloading was not identified as the cause of the fire aboard the MV June Aster, Lopez said authorities would likewise tighten safety checks at seaports and strictly enforce passenger and cargo limits as part of broader efforts to improve maritime safety.

“Ang gagawin, base na rin sa karanasan ng enforcers natin, is to make sure yung mga ganitong pangyayari ay hindi na maulit. Kailangan ding tignan kung meron bang sapat na life vests, meron ba tayong fire extinguisher dyan,” he added.