The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Thursday directed all regional directors to inspect transport terminals and ensure passenger safety and comfort in anticipation of a surge in travelers for “Undas” or All Saints and All Souls Days on November 1 and 2.

“Tapusin na natin yung nakagawian na parang utang na loob pa ng mga pasahero na sumakay sa mga bus at mga pampublikong sasakyan. Your passengers are your lifeline in business, respect them with clean, presentable and comfortable waiting areas,” LTFRB Chairman Atty. Vigor D. Mendoza II said.

“We will also make sure that all buses and other public transport vehicles are safe—from the vehicles to the drivers and conductors— to ensure that passengers will go to their destinations safe and comfortable,” he added.

Mendoza also specifically ordered that comfort rooms in terminals be kept clean. Likewise, waiting areas should be comfortable and convenient, in line with the agency’s requirements.

“In particular, CRs must be functioning properly, well lighted and well ventilated at no cost or minimal cost to passengers,” he said.

In addition, the booking process must be easy and stress-free, and transport company employees should refrain from being rude to passengers.

“Mystery passengers” will be sent out nationwide to report on the condition of bus stations and transport terminals beginning October 24, Mendoza said.

These inspections will not be a one-time occurrence, the chairman said. Instead, they will be carried out on a monthly basis.

“Under our watch, this will be a regular thing. Hindi lang pang undas, pasko o semana santa. We will require random checking at least every month of the year,” he promised.