The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) issued a show cause order (SCO) against 34 public utility vehicle (PUV) operators who did not travel on their routes and were instead seen at the rally sites in Quezon City, it announced on Wednesday.

Those issued SCOs include bus and UV Express operators. Although the agency respects every individual’s right to protest, public interest must also be considered.

“The LTFRB explained that it affected a number of commuters who are relying on the service of PUV operators… the decision of the operators not to operate on Tuesday affected the availability of public transportation service to the riding public,” the transportation agency said.

The 34 operators were ordered to explain in notarized writing why their permits to operate should not be suspended or cancelled. The case hearing is scheduled for July 9.

The operators’ decision violates Paragraph 3 of Memorandum Circular No. 2011-004, which prohibits PUV operators from permitting their personnel to halt their services to protest against government actions.

On Tuesday, the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) held a rally at the EDSA People Power Monument. As early as 3:48 a.m. on June 30, 500 rallyists and 30 vehicles were seen marching along the northbound lane of EDSA from The Corinthian toward White Plains Avenue, according to the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA).

A female police officer was injured and rushed to the hospital after a bus allegedly moved back and forth in an apparent attempt to block the roadway, according to a report yesterday.