New LTFRB Leader Promises Rapid Processing of Petitions
In his first major pledge since taking the helm, LTFRB Chairman Vigor F. Mendoza II vowed to accelerate the processing of all petitions, motions, and related transactions at the agency. The move is intended to address longstanding delays that have affected drivers, operators, and the commuting public while also serving as a countermeasure against corrupt practices.
Aligning with President Marcos’ Ease-of-Doing-Business Push
Mendoza emphasized that fast-tracking all agency petitions is part of the broader effort to implement ease-of-doing-business measures across government agencies, in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directives. He underscored that curbing inefficiencies is not only a matter of timeliness but also a crucial step in reducing opportunities for illicit payments and “under-the-table” deals that have plagued the LTFRB for years.
Addressing Backlogs That Harm Livelihoods
During a dialogue with transport groups, Mendoza acknowledged the backlog of petitions that can stretch into months. He warned that such delays exact real costs on operators and drivers whose livelihoods depend on timely rulings on route considerations and other public-transport matters. “We have to put an end to this practice because if we do not do it now, when are we going to do it? And when will your petitions be resolved?” he asked participants, signaling a break with the status quo.
A Plan to Clear Pending Matters
Taking stock of the agency’s workload, Mendoza announced an ambitious target: resolve all pending petitions and pleadings by the third week of November. He asserted that years-long processing times would become a thing of the past under his leadership and pledged to introduce mechanisms that keep petitions moving through LTFRB without unnecessary delays.
Commitment to Transparency and Accountability
The LTFRB chief urged transport stakeholders to list all pending petitions and pleadings to facilitate faster retrieval and resolution. He cautioned participants not to enable corruption by complying with illegal demands and called on the sector to cooperate in building a more transparent, accountable system. “All I ask from your part is to refrain from being an enabler of corruption by giving in to the demands of anybody in the agency that are illegal,” Mendoza said.
Benefits for Commuters and the Public Transport Sector
Beyond improving administrative efficiency, Mendoza’s initiative aims to deliver tangible benefits for Filipino commuters. By expediting petition resolutions, the LTFRB can more quickly adjust routes, service levels, and regulatory approvals to respond to changing demand, safety concerns, and urban mobility needs. Operators stand to gain from clearer timelines and reduced uncertainty, while drivers may see more predictable operating conditions and revenue opportunities as the system becomes more responsive.
Collaborative Effort to Reform a Storied Agency
The LTFRB chief also called on operators, drivers, and transport groups to work alongside the agency in reform efforts. He framed fast-tracking petitions not merely as an administrative tweak, but as a strategic overhaul that strengthens public trust in government processes and improves the overall reliability of the country’s public transportation system.
As Mendoza moves to implement these reforms, the transport sector is watching closely to see whether the planned turnaround can be sustained and scaled. If successful, the initiative could serve as a model for other agencies grappling with backlogs, corruption risks, and the pressing need to deliver timely, citizen-centered service.
