LTFRB opens more Mindanao bus routes

MANILA, Philippines — Three more bus routes in Mindanao will be opened today.

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) said yesterday it allowed 40 bus units to ply the routes under memorandum circular 2020-051.

The routes are Cagayan de Oro City to Tacurong in Sultan Kudarat and Davao City to Kidapawan City and Arakan in North Cotabato.

The LTFRB said only public utility vehicles with a valid franchise or application for extension of validity and personal passenger insurance policy will be allowed to operate.

A special permit should be downloaded and printed by the operator.

The LTFRB reminded operators of public utility vehicles and the public to strictly comply with minimum health protocols, including wearing of face masks and face shields and physical distancing.

There are now 50 bus routes with 1,599 units allowed to operate since the government eased community quarantine guidelines.

On Wednesday, the LTFRB opened five provincial routes with 440 buses.

These are to and from Baguio City and Mariveles, Bataan and Olongapo City in Zambales, North Luzon Expressway and Baguio City and NLEX and Laoag City and Pagupudpud in Ilocos Norte.