Holiday bus permit requests rise

MANILA, Philippines — With more commuters expected this holiday season, special bus permit applications have increased compared to the past two years, according to the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).

Up to 1,413 buses plying 116 routes nationwide applied for special permits from Nov. 10 to 21.

In 2024, the LTFRB recorded 1,003 applications. There were 1,174 submissions in 2023.

“It is better to grant more special permits than have fewer buses because passengers suffer when they get stranded at terminals,” LTFRB Chairman Vigor Mendoza II said.

Special permits will cover operations from Dec. 15 to Jan. 16, 2026.