LTFRB to bus firms: Submit security plan

MANILA, Philippines — The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has ordered operators of public utility buses (PUBs) to strictly comply with the government’s requirement to submit an approved security plan for their units.

The transport regulator chided bus companies for what it said is their lack of commitment and proper implementation of the policy requiring them to submit an approved security plan by the Department of Transportation’s Office for Transportation Security (DOTr-OTS).

“All PUB operators, whether operating on city, intra-regional or inter-regional routes are required to comply and submit the approved OTS security plan,” the LTFRB said in a memorandum circular dated May 17.

The LTFRB has previously directed bus companies to submit their security plan for franchise renewal and application in response to bombings and other violent crimes targeting buses.

The security plan should contain 12 key points to address critical elements of security, including security organization and security responsibilities, security measures and procedures, record keeping, training of personnel, security drills and exercises, security equipment and contingency plan.

The LTFRB warned that bus operators are presumed to have violated the memorandum circular and conditions of their certificates of public convenience (CPCs) should a bombing, crime or any breach of security occur.

“Appropriate penalties may be imposed such as but not limited to the suspension or cancellation of their CPC, as may be determined by the Board,” the LTFRB said.