LTFRB to open 12 modified provincial bus routes in Metro Manila on September 30

Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has recently opened 12 modified provincial bus routes in line with the resumption of its operations in Metro Manila. The initiative was made possible in partnership with LGUs, terminals, and bus operators.

Under the Memorandum Circular 2020-51 of LTFRB, the following provincial bus routes will be open starting  September 30, 2020:

1. San Fernando, Pampanga – Araneta Center, Cubao, Quezon City
2. Batangas City, Batangas – Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITx)
3. Lemery, Batangas – PITx
4. Lipa City, Batangas – PITx
5. Nasugbu, Batangas – PITx
6. Indang, Cavite – PITx
7. Mendez, Cavite – PITx
8. Tagaytay City, Cavite – PITx
9. Ternate, Cavite – PITx
10. Calamba City, Laguna – PITx
11. Siniloan, Laguna – PITx
12. Sta. Cruz, Laguna – PITx

The routes were approved by each LGUs. Operators are only allowed to drop and accept passengers on designated stopover points and terminals where the buses will conclude its route.

As stated on the memorandum, public utility buses on the mentioned routes will only be allowed to travel if operators obtain a valid and existing Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC) or Application for Extension of Validity. Bus operators should also register their buses traversing the allowed routes with Personal Passenger Insurance Policy. Instead of Special Permits, operators will be given QR codes that should be printed on a short bond paper and posted on the provincial buses. Operators may obtain and download the QR Code through the official website of LTFRB.

Bus operators are also required to install a Global Navigation Satellite System on each bus unit to monitor its journey.

Passengers are required to bring the following requirements before getting on board:

1. PNP Travel Authority/Pass from the point of origin issued within 48 hours before the departure
2. Valid ID with proof of information including address, age, and place where the passenger studies or work.n
3. Written consent to undergo COVID-19 testing and/or quarantine as may be required by the LGU either at the point of origin or destination.
4. Other documents as may be required by the Inter-Agency Task Force for Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) and local government unit.

The documents are also required to be presented at the passenger’s destination.

Both drivers and passengers that will traverse on the mentioned provincial routes above should follow the health and safety protocols mandated by the IATF. This includes the mandatory use of face masks and face shields, taking a foot bath on the disinfecting mat before going on board, bringing alcohol and sanitizers, and observation of one-meter social distancing. They are also not allowed to talking and take calls inside the PUB’s premises.

Passengers should secure bus tickets two days before or earlier from the date of departure. They may book online or go to the terminal. Selling of trip tickets on the day itself is prohibited. However, it will only be allowed if it is a health emergency.

Buses under the modified provincial bus routes will be monitored regularly. LTFRB also reminded the operators that those who will violate any provisions in the memorandum has a corresponding fine and punishment coursing from the revocation of CPC or Provisional Authority to operate.

Source: <!–https://www.facebook.com/ltfrb.central.office/posts/2725772187664692 –>LTFRB