LTFRB allows longer special permit for buses

CEBU, Philippines — The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board has extended the period of validity of special permits for the observance of Holy Week 2023.

Under LTFRB Board Resolution No. 009, special permits for the Holy Week will now be longer—March 31 to April 17—instead of just April 2 to 11, 2023 as announced earlier.

LTFRB-7 regional director Eduardo Montealto Jr., however, clarified that the special permit is only intended for public buses.

“Bus lang gyud kay pick-up passenger ni sila,” Montealto told The Freeman yesterday adding the cost of the special permit is P250 for the entire duration.

Other public utility vehicles, except taxi units, may be issued a special permit that is good for three days and for family use only.

“Ang uban pwede (like jeepneys and UV Express) but not the taxi pero three days lang and not to pick up passengers. Pwede for family use, religious activity, office excursions and similar use,” Montealto added.

The payment for the three days special permit is still at P250 per unit.

The extension of the period of the special permit is in line with Malacañang's Proclamation No. 90 declaring April 6, 2023 as Maundy Thursday and April 7, 2023 as Good Friday, both as regular holidays.

Under the said proclamation, the Araw ng Kagitingan (April 9, 2023) which falls on a Sunday is moved to April 10, 2023, Monday.

According to LTFRB, the said Resolution was issued in anticipation of the bulk of passengers going home to their respective provinces owing to the long holidays, less travel restrictions, and opening the country’s economy.

LTFRB Chairman Teofilo Guadiz III said that with the five-day break, it will give more Filipinos the chance to spend more time with their families in the provinces and for spiritual reflection during the Holy Week.

“That is why the Board decided to change the duration of Special Permits so that the commuting public is assured of sufficient supply of public transportation that would take them to their destination,” Guadiz III added. (FREEMAN)