LTFRB-7 issues 72 special permits

CEBU, Philippines — At least 72 special permits were issued by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board-7 to allow public utility buses to operate outside of its travel line during the holiday season.

LTFRB-7 director Eduardo Montealto Jr. said 37 buses in the south and 35 in the north were given special permits to ferry passengers outside of their usual route starting last December 20 until January 4 next year.

The special permits were issued to ensure enough public transport during the holidays. Montealto said more special permits will be issued if necessary.

The LTFRB-7 together with the other concerned government agencies had been conducting inspections of buses since last week to ensure road safety.

 “Duna tay isa kagahapon nga wala gyud nato pabiyahia kay dili gyud to pwede iyahang tires, natuklap naman gani ang iyahang recap adto wala gyud to nato pabiyahia unless kung ilang mailisan og ligid,” Montealto said.

   Meanwhile, the Land Transportation Office-7 through its Malasakit program in cooperation with the local government of Liloan is extending its free ride until today, December 24.

LT0-7 announced on its Facebook page that during the two-day LTO Malasakit Free Ride Pamasko 2019, passengers enjoyed staying at the LTO Malasakit lounge while waiting for their designated bus to depart. The passengers were also given free coffee. (FREEMAN)