MMDA: P2P buses to replace provincial buses

MANILA, Philippines — The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) is eyeing to replace provincial buses with point-to-point (P2P) buses as it stood firm on its policy to remove all provincial bus terminals on EDSA.

MMDA general manager Jojo Garcia said he talked with the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to see if the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) could allow the deployment of P2P buses in lieu of the provincial buses. 

The LTFRB is an attached agency of the DOTr that regulates transport operations in the country. 

Garcia said the P2P buses will also be deployed for luggage-laden commuters while other passengers can use the city buses with routes extended to the interim bus terminals in Sta. Rosa, Laguna and Valenzuela City.

To ensure that no buses will be added on the road, Garcia said that the same operators of the provincial bus terminals will be tapped to deploying a limited number of P2P buses. 

Under MMDA Regulation 19-002, Metro Manila mayors are encouraged to revoke or stop the issuance of business permits for all bus operators and terminals on EDSA in a bid to decongest the thoroughfare. 

The MMDA started its dry run shortly after the Holy Week break in April as it plans to have local government officials to implement the regulation by June.