LTFRB to inspect bus terminals for Holy Week

MANILA, Philippines - The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) will inspect bus terminals in Metro Manila to ensure the safety of travelers going to the provinces for the Holy Week.

LTFRB Chairman Winston Ginez said the inspections would include random drug testing on bus drivers. 

Ginez along with Land Transportation Office officials will visit bus terminals at the Araneta Center in Cubao, Quezon City and Sampaloc, Dapitan, España and Lawton in Manila.

The inspections will start today.

Ginez said the move is line with the “Oplan Exodus Ligtas Biyahe 2014” of the Department of Transportation and Communications.

He said the LTFRB would allow only buses that pass roadworthiness inspection to transport travelers to their destinations during the Lenten season.

“The LTFRB will conduct inspections on major bus terminals to ensure their units have valid permits and pass road safety measures before they are allowed to operate,” Ginez added.

For the convenience of travelers, the LTFRB is requiring all bus terminals to have separate male and female clean restrooms, ventilated waiting areas, authorized security personnel to check baggage of passengers as well as first-aid kit and fire extinguishers for emergency situations.

Helpdesks with LTFRB personnel on duty will be posted in bus terminals to assist travelers with complaints against bus operators.