DOTr’s Bautista eyes accessible, affordable, safe, land public transport

Newly appointed Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Jaime Bautista said that in order to meet the goal of making the transportation systems in the Philippines at par with global standards, the department and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) must provide the country with accessible, affordable, comfortable and safe transportation to Filipinos.

The transportation secretary made the statement during the during the leadership turnover between Martin Delgra III and now Chairman Atty. Cheloy Garafil last Monday.

“To all LTFRB personnel—memorize these values: accessibility, affordability, comfort and safety. These will be the cornerstone of all programs of agencies under the DOTr,” Bautista said.

“One practical area to adopt these values is how LTFRB promotes ease of doing business, how you can reduce red tape, how you can shorten processes so that public utility drivers and operators can quickly avail of your services,” he added.

Further, Bautista expressed his confidence that the agency will rise above the challenges surrounding the sector.

“With critical transport issues mounting every day, we will be under close scrutiny if you can provide immediate solutions. And LTFRB, among others, is at the frontline of providing the solutions,” he explained.

“I draw much confidence that we will succeed knowing there are many dedicated and committed personnel at the LTFRB.”

Further, he then challenged Garafil and his leadership to focus on the calls of its stakeholders — especially the riding public.

On the other hand, Garafil, cited President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.’s instructions to her on three issues: streamlining of processes at the LTFRB, providing immediate assistance to drivers and operators, and to maintain focus on passenger and commuter policies.

“There is much work to be done and I must admit this is truly not for the weak of heart. Alam ko po ang bigat ng responsibilidad ng LTFRB lalo na ngayong nasa gitna tayo ng pandemya (I understand the weight of the LTFRB's responsibility especially now that we are in the midst of a pandemic),” she added.

Photos from the Department of Transportation

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