Enforce the law, seniors urge LTFRB

Senior citizens, persons with disability (PWDs), and pregnant women are requesting the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to compel bus companies to implement the law giving priority to them in bus seats intended for them.

We have sent request before for the implementation of the law but until now we see no positive result.

Despite the law we see seats reserved for senior citizens, PWDs, and pregnant women occupied by able-bodied passengers.

 The sign at the top of the seats is clear – reserved for senior citizens, PWDs, and pregnant women. But bus conductors as well as passengers ignore the sign. And there are buses with no sign at all. LTFRB please check.

We suggest that bus conductors be compelled to implement the law. Are they unaware of what they should do? Penalty should be imposed for non-compliance.

At random LTFRB may check buses to know their compliance. There should be a notice in bold letters for passengers to read – Reserved Seats for Senior Citizens, PWDs, and Pregnant Women – mention the laws.

Some bus companies are hesitant to impose the law. Reason: First front row seats perilous for senior citizens, PWDs, and pregnant women. A sudden stop of the vehicle may cause senior citizens, PWDs, and pregnant women to fall down. Thus, reserved seats should be in the second row.

President Duterte is also a senior citizen. Many times he showed his concern for them. We hope LTFRB will finally enforce the law. — LEONARDO CELESTE CANTA, Sorrento Seniors, Citizens Association, Camella Sorrento, Panapaan IV, Bacoor City