THE Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) issued a stern warning on Monday, July 7, to public utility vehicle (PUV) operators who allow overcrowding.
Operators caught exceeding passenger capacity limits risk substantial penalties, including fines and potential franchise revocation.
The advisory, issued by LTFRB Chairperson Teofilo Guadiz III, followed a memorandum from the Department of Transportation (DOTr) aiming to eliminate the practice of cramming passengers into PUVs. The LTFRB emphasized that violations will be met with consequences under Joint Administrative Order No. 2014-01, which outlines penalties such as suspension or cancellation of Certificates of Public Convenience (CPCs).
The advisory detailed specific passenger limits for various PUV types. UV Express vehicles, including Mitsubishi Adventures and Isuzu Crosswinds, are restricted to a maximum of nine passengers, including the driver.
Regular vans, such as Toyota Hi-Aces and Nissan Urvan Shuttles, are limited to ten passengers, including the driver. The LTFRB’s action underscores the agency’s commitment to ensuring passenger safety and comfort.
Overcrowding in PUVs poses significant risks, including increased chances of accidents and the spread of infectious diseases.
The LTFRB urged operators to strictly adhere to passenger capacity limits and cooperate in maintaining a safe and orderly transportation system. The agency also called on the public to report any instances of overcrowding to help enforce these regulations.
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