The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Tuesday announced it has suspended the operation of 22 passenger buses for various violations, including non-compliance with the requirement for clean and comfortable passenger terminals.
LTFRB Chairman Vigor Mendoza II said they already issued the notification of the suspension and show cause orders (SCOs) against Elavil Tours Phils. Inc. and AMV Travel and Tours Inc.
At least 17 passenger buses plying the Bicol-Manila route of Elavil Tours Inc. were suspended for not more than 30 days, while the same sanction was imposed on the five units of AMV Travel and Tours Inc.
“This should serve as a stern warning to transport companies to comply with the minimum standard for safe operations and maintaining passenger-friendly stations and terminals,” Mendoza said.
“Passengers are the lifeblood of your businesses, so it is only right that you serve them well. You cannot make it difficult for your passengers to get wet when it rains, have no proper seats while waiting for their ride, and are unable to use the comfort rooms because they are too dirty,” he added.
The two aforementioned companies were ordered to surrender their for-hire plates and explain in notarized writing why their franchise should not be suspended or revoked.
Mendoza assured them of due process, as the two companies will be given the chance to explain in a hearing scheduled on October 22 at the LTFRB main office in Quezon City.
