DOTr shuts down Pasay bus terminal

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has ordered the closure of an illegal bus terminal in Pasay.

Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez directed the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to impound the company’s vehicles and revoke the operator’s franchise.

Lopez said the bus terminal located in a vacant lot, which was previously shut down for operating without approval by the LTFRB, had resumed operation ahead of Undas to take advantage of the surge in passengers.

The facility reportedly services routes to Bicol and Leyte.

Lopez said buses found in the terminal are considered colorum or unauthorized public utility vehicles.

The DOTr impounded the buses and assisted stranded passengers.

The department also ordered the operator to refund fares to affected passengers.

The DOTr will shoulder the cost of new tickets so that the passengers can continue their trips.

Lopez said an investigation is underway to determine if the bus company’s owner holds a valid franchise and if it committed overcharging and other violations.

He emphasized that even garages used for bus parking must be reported to the LTFRB.

The DOTr will coordinate with the barangay officials and deploy personnel to ensure that the bus terminal will not reopen.

Meanwhile, Lopez inspected bus terminals in Cubao, Quezon City on Sunday to ensure readiness for the expected influx of passengers during All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days.

He ordered the LTFRB to sanction bus companies that fail to comply with terminal and safety standards.