The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Monday ordered operators and drivers of Transport Network Vehicle Services (TNVS) and Public Utility Vehicles (PUVs) to comply with the law-mandated fare discounts for senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and students.
LTFRB chairperson Teofilo Guadiz III said this underscores the agency’s commitment to safeguarding the rights of marginalized groups in public transportation. He said that Under Republic Act No. 9994 or the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010 and Republic Act No. 7277 or the Magna Carta for Disabled Persons, a 20-percent fare discount is required for senior citizens and PWDs.
Students are also entitled to a similar 20-percent discount during school days, based on LTFRB memorandum circulars. The agency reminded all PUV operators to grant students the discount at all times, including holidays, weekends and during vacation, 24/7, year-round.
Despite these clear guidelines, reports of non-compliance have prompted the agency to take decisive action. Complaints emerged, especially from passengers who rely on TNVS platforms, noting the lack of a seamless option to apply discounts.
Some PUV operators, including jeepneys and bus drivers, were also accused of refusing to honor valid IDs or charging the full fare, leaving passengers frustrated and disadvantaged. “Such practices go against the law and are a disservice to the commuting public,” said Guadiz.
