LTFRB to require drivers' uniforms in January

CEBU, Philippines - The wearing of prescribed uniforms for all public utility drivers will be strictly implemented and observed effective January 2012.

This is according to Land Transportation, Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) 7 Regional Director Ahmed Cuizon based on a memorandum circular sent from their main office.

The uniforms would be for all drivers and conductors of public transports such as buses, jeepneys and taxis.

The policy on the wearing of prescribed uniforms for drivers was supposed to be implemented this year but the operators and drivers of utility vehicles sought for reconsideration.

“Miuyon ug misabot ta sa hangyo nga ang ila unang karaang uniporme ang ilang sul-ubon sa mga drayber kay nakasabot ko hilabina nga sigeng saka ang presyo ron sa gasolina ug sa ubang mga palaliton (We considered their request, knowing that the prices of gasoline and other commodities have been increasing),” Cuizon said.

According to the circular, jeepney and multicab drivers should wear light blue polo shirts while taxi drivers should wear red polo shirts. Cargo truck drivers, meanwhile, must wear maroon polo shirts while those for vans-for-hire should wear green polo shirts.

A white polo shirt is the required uniform for bus drivers and yellow polo shirt for those driving a shuttle service, school service and tourist transport service.

Those who will be caught driving without their prescribed uniforms will have to pay a fine of P100 for the first offense; P300 for second offenders and P500 for the third offense.

Transportation Development Officer of LTFRB Rey Elnar also urged the public to report to them any problems with taxi meters.

Elnar said the public can call their hotline number (032) 2316221.

“Nakadawat mi og mga report nga dunay mga taxi nga paspas ang mga metro tungod duna kiniy ibutang nga mga kahimanan aron mokusog ang dagan sa ilang metro ug madako ang mabayran sa nagsakay (We heard reports that some taxi drivers tamper with their meters so their passengers will have to pay more),” Elnar said. — (FREEMAN)