DOTC chief urges public to report abuses

Transportation Secretary Pantaleon Alvarez urged travelers yesterday to be vigilant against abusive public transport owners and operators by reporting to the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) during the Holy Week.

Alvarez said that many bus companies and shipping lines usually take advantage of the peak season by increasing their fares, overbooking and fielding dilapidated units.

"I am giving transport firms a stern warning. The Land Transportation Office and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) will not hesitate to impose stiff penalties on erring bus companies and shipping lines," he said.

The DOTC has launched the "Oplan Kalakbay" program to ensure a "hassle-free, safe and convenient travel" for those going to the provinces during the holidays. Under the program, the DOTC has relaxed the franchise system by allowing Metro Manila buses to ply provincial routes. This is intended to augment provincial-bound passenger vehicles. But those who want to avail of this privilege have to apply with the LTFRB for special permits.

But the agency will continue to implement its campaigns against smoke-belching and colorum vehicles during the holidays.

Alvarez added that teams will be fielded by the DOTC in bus and ship terminals to attend to the complaints of passengers.

"We urge ship and bus owners to ensure order and security in their terminals for the safety of their passengers. We’ll closely monitor if they comply with government regulations," he added.

Alvarez, however, said that the "Kalakbay" program will not succeed without the cooperation of the commuting public.