New LTFRB Leadership Promises a Swift, Clean Start
In a bid to reform the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), newly appointed chairman Vigor F. Mendoza II pledged to expedite every petition, motion, and transaction before the agency. His vow aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s push for ease of doing business and a stronger stance against corruption in government agencies.
Commitment to Fast-Tracking Petitions
Mendoza said his administration will fast-track all pending and incoming petitions, pleadings, and cases to shorten delays that have historically hampered transport operators, drivers, and the commuting public. He noted that initial assessments showed petitions sometimes languished for months, with affected stakeholders waiting for resolutions on routes, permits, and other public transportation concerns.
“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?” Mendoza told transport groups during a dialogue. The message highlighted his intent to create a more predictable, transparent process for regulatory matters that touch the daily lives of Filipino commuters and transport workers.
Addressing Under-the-Table Deals
Central to Mendoza’s reform agenda is the eradication of under-the-table transactions that distort fair play. He asserted that expediting official processes is an antidote to corruption, arguing that quicker, legally compliant procedures reduce opportunities for illicit incentives and informal arrangements.
To operationalize this commitment, Mendoza asked the transport sector to compile and submit all pending petitions and pleadings. The goal is to streamline retrieval and resolution, ensuring that routes and related concerns are settled within a clear, finite timeframe.
Aligning with the President’s Ease of Doing Business Policy
The reform drive is part of a broader government effort to improve the ease of doing business in all agencies. Mendoza emphasized that simplifying rules, reducing bureaucratic touch points, and delivering timely decisions will benefit not only operators and drivers but also the missions of Filipino commuters who rely on stable, affordable public transport.
Operational Milestones and Accountability
Mendoza projected that most pending matters could be resolved by the third week of November, signaling a concrete timeline for measurable improvements. He also warned against any pressure or coercion that could compromise the integrity of LTFRB processes. In his words, the agency’s leadership expects cooperation from all stakeholders while maintaining strict adherence to rules and legal standards.
A Call for Collaboration
“Let us work together to further improve the system here in LTFRB because it is not only the drivers and operators who will benefit but the missions of Filipino commuters,” Mendoza said. His approach requires transparent communication between the agency and transport groups, with regular updates on petition status and a clearer explanation of procedural changes.
<h2Implications for Stakeholders and the Public
If Mendoza’s plan succeeds, operators could experience faster approvals for route adjustments and permits, while drivers may see fewer delays that impact livelihoods. For commuters, the promised improvements could translate into more reliable public transport and reduced wait times. The LTFRB’s ability to deliver timely decisions will be closely watched by policymakers, transport unions, and the general public, all seeking a more efficient and corruption-free regulatory environment.
As the agency begins implementing these reforms, observers will assess whether fast-tracking processes leads to improved service without compromising due process or safety standards. The coming weeks will be pivotal in determining if Mendoza’s early promises translate into lasting changes that reshape the LTFRB’s reputation and performance.
