LTFRB to PUVs: Honor mandatory PWD discounts, ensure accessibility

MANILA, Philippines—The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Friday reminded public utility vehicle (PUV) operators and drivers to honor the mandatory 20 percent fare discount for persons with disabilities (PWDs) as millions of Filipinos head to their home provinces for Undas.

Violations of the discount rule carry a fine of P5,000 for the first offense, P10,000 and a six-month suspension of the operator’s Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC) for the second offense, and cancellation of the CPC for the third offense.

READ: LTFRB to issue memo ordering TNCs, operators to assume 20% fare discount

Acting LTFRB Chairperson Greg Pua Jr. said the agency expects transport companies and operators to comply with existing rules and provide PWD passengers with the necessary assistance during the holiday travel period.

“Both the accessibility and discounts for PWDs are non-negotiable,” Pua said in a statement, adding that the requirements are protected by law and carry corresponding sanctions for violations.

Pua said some PUV operators had already been issued show cause orders or penalized for violations, including cases involving the refusal to grant the mandatory 20 percent discount.

He cited a recent incident involving a passenger bus in Pampanga.

In a Sept. 11 press release, the LTFRB said it received a complaint from a PWD passenger who boarded a bus in Pampanga but was denied the mandatory fare discount after the conductor rejected the identification card issued by the local government.

The complaint also alleged that the bus company punished the conductor for granting a fare discount to a PWD passenger.

Apart from fare discounts, the LTFRB reminded operators to ensure that PWDs can access transportation terminals and public utility vehicles safely and conveniently.

Under LTFRB Memorandum Circular No. 2010-023, regular buses must provide at least four seats for PWD passengers near the entrance. Designated seats must also display the international symbol of accessibility.

Transportation terminals must provide accessibility features, such as ramps for wheelchair users, accessible comfort rooms and designated seating for PWDs.

Operators who violate accessibility requirements face a fine of P50,000 for the first offense, P100,000 for the second offense and cancellation of their CPC for the third offense.

Pua urged operators and drivers to uphold PWDs’ rights and ensure they have a safe and convenient travel experience.

“Let us give our PWD kababayan what is due to them in accordance with the existing laws and rules and regulations,” he said. /gsg