Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Vince Dizon on Wednesday expressed disappointment after learning that fewer than half of the 50 bus companies issued show cause orders (SCOs) had complied with the directives, prompting him to warn of possible terminal closures.
Dizon said the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) informed him of the low compliance rate among the bus companies that received the orders when he first assumed office as transportation chief.
“Hindi nga ako masaya. Sinabi sa akin ng LTFRB, out of the 50 na bus companies na pinadalhan natin na mga show cause order bago ako umalis ng DOTr last year, wala pang kalahati ‘yung nag-comply, hindi maganda ‘yun,” Dizon made the remarks after inspecting three bus terminals in Sampaloc, Manila.
He stressed that bus operators must ensure that their facilities provide passengers with clean restrooms, proper waiting areas and comfortable accommodations, while prioritizing the safety of buses and drivers.
“Mensahe ng pangulo sa mga bus company natin, negosyo niyo ‘to, pinagkakakitaan niyo ito pero bigyan niyo naman ng dignidad man lang ‘yung mga mananakay natin; na maayos ang CR, maayos ang mga waiting area, komportable sila. Pangatlo, sigurado tayo na safe ang mga bus and mga driver natin,” Dizon said.
He warned bus companies that have yet to comply with their SCOs that their terminals could be closed if they fail to take corrective action.
