LTFRB okays resumption of school transport services

As face-to-face classes are set to begin this month, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has allowed school transport services to resume operations.

Based on the LTFRB Memorandum Circular 2022-066 signed last July 28, school transport services with active Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC) or Provisional Authority (PA) as well as those with expired CPC but with pending Application for Extension of Validity can operate for the coming school year. 

The aforementioned circular, approved by LTFRB chair Cheloy Garafil and board members Riza Marie Paches and Mercy Jane Leynes,  is effective starting August 1.

The LTFRB shared that school transport services with expiring CPC dating from March 31, 2022 to August 31, 2022 have been allowed to file an application for Extension of Validity, with the LTFRB waiving penalties.

The aforementioned initiative was implemented in recognition of the adverse financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on operators and drivers of school transport services.

Apart from that, the LTFRB will also renounce penalties for school service units with pending confirmation from March 31, 2020 up to August 31, 2022. 

Further, the school transport services that are allowed to operate must comply with the following conditions:

• Secured windows (steel-grilled)
• Seatbelts for all passengers
• Working portable fire extinguisher 
• “Stop” and “Go” signages to be carried by the conductor when children cross the street 
• Drivers and conductors to wear prescribed uniforms 

Moreover, the LTFRB noted that the following health and safety protocols prescribed by the Department of Health (DOH) and the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) must be followed:

• Regular examination of the drivers and conductors’ fitness to work by checking their body temperature and screening for symptoms related to COVID-19. 
• Regular disinfection of frequently-touched surfaces, such as but not limited to seats, armrests, and handles. 
• Mandatory wearing of face masks at all times by drivers and conductors, including passengers. 

Operators, drivers and conductors who will fail to follow the guidelines shall face sanctions such as revocation of their CPC and PA, the agency noted.

Meanwhile, the LTFRB is expected to open more than 100 routes, particularly within the university belt and other areas with a high concentration of students, to meet the expected surge in passenger demand following the start of onsite classes.

Photos from Ruben D. Manahan IV, Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board

Also read:

LTFRB Releases New Requirements for School Bus Service Franchises

LTFRB: Stop Using Tricycles as School Service

LTFRB to Schools: Use Accredited Bus Companies for Field Trips