LTFRB seeks poll ban exemption

MANILA, Philippines — Transport programs should be exempted from the fund disbursement prohibition during the election period, according to the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board.

The LTFRB has asked the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to exempt some of its programs, including the service contracting, fuel subsidy and public transport modernization programs.

Free EDSA busway rides, Love Buses and fuel discounts are not election-related expenses, acting LTFRB Chairman Greg Pua Jr. said in a Sept. 15 letter to Comelec Chairman George Garcia.

These programs aim to assist the public amid the Middle East conflict, according to Pua.

The LTFRB is facilitating the release of up to three-month assistance packages to modern public transport operators for their monthly loan amortization and operational expenses.

Transport groups have been calling for a fare increase amid the rising cost of petroleum products.

Pua said interrupting the programs during elections may disrupt the delivery of essential public transportation services.

“The LTFRB, through the guidance of the Department (of Transportation), further commits that the implementation of these programs shall remain subject to objective eligibility requirements, proper documentation, validation, accounting and auditing rules, and such safeguards as may be prescribed by the Comelec, with no participation or involvement of candidates or political parties,” Pua said.