LTFRB Calls on Passengers to Report Violations
The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has urged passengers of public utility vehicles (PUVs) to take an active role in monitoring and reporting errant drivers. Sources familiar with the matter emphasized that filing complaints is crucial to help the agency enforce rules and protect commuter rights.
LTFRB spokesperson Ariel Inton explained that many drivers feel emboldened to break laws regarding passenger welfare, such as discrimination and overcharging, because victims often hesitate to file reports. He encouraged the public to change this mindset.
“Let us do away with that mindset of letting these abuses pass. Our mandate here in the LTFRB is to protect commuters and we have already proved that we are serious in doing this with the show cause orders we issued and sanctions we imposed in the past weeks,” said Inton. “But we know we have to do more. That is why we ask our kababayan to file the complaints because that is one of the ways we would be aware of these abuses that must be addressed.”
Incidents Highlight Need for Passenger Complaints
Recently, LTFRB chairperson warned drivers against charging fares based on passenger size after an incident involving a person with disability (PWD) who was forced to get off a vehicle due to discriminatory remarks by the driver. Unfortunately, the PWD could not obtain enough details about the driver or vehicle, which prevented authorities from penalizing the offender.
On the other hand, the agency successfully sanctioned a driver who sped away without giving proper change after a passenger filed a detailed complaint. This case demonstrates how passenger reports allow LTFRB to track down and hold violators accountable.
How to Report Errant Drivers
Inton urged commuters who experience or witness any offenses such as overcharging, discrimination, or other violations to report them immediately. Complaints can be filed through the LTFRB hotline 1342, their official social media pages, or via email at complaints@ltfrb.gov.ph.
By encouraging more Filipinos to come forward and report erring drivers, the LTFRB hopes to strengthen its efforts in safeguarding commuter welfare and ensuring fair treatment for all passengers.
For more news and updates on public utility vehicle complaints, visit Filipinokami.com.