Overview: Preparing for the Undas exodus
With millions of Filipinos expected to travel during All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days, the LTFRB has issued a sweeping directive aimed at making bus terminals and stations cleaner, safer, and more passenger-friendly. LTFRB chairman Vigor D. Mendoza II announced that all bus companies and transport operators must elevate basic standards of cleanliness and comfort in anticipation of the Undas exodus. The move seeks to curb the long-standing complaints about cramped waiting areas, dirty restrooms, and unreliable booking processes that often trouble travelers during peak travel periods.
Key requirements for transport operators
The directive centers on several core expectations. First, terminals must be clean and well-lit, with comfortable waiting areas that can accommodate the surge of passengers during the Undas period. Restrooms are a particular focus: they must be functioning, well-ventilated, and available to passengers at no or minimal cost. This emphasis on accessibility reflects the LTFRB’s broader goal of ensuring that travel is not only safe but also respectful and convenient for the riding public.
Second, safety remains non-negotiable. Operators and terminal managers are urged to verify that buses and other public transport vehicles are in good condition, and that drivers and conductors meet the agency’s safety standards. The overarching aim is to minimize incidents during a busy travel window as millions make their way to and from provinces and cities across the country.
Enforcement and monitoring plans
To guarantee compliance, Mendoza revealed that the LTFRB will deploy mystery passengers nationwide starting October 24. These undercover observers will evaluate terminal cleanliness, comfort, and overall passenger experience, reporting back on how well operators implement the directive. In redefining accountability, the LTFRB intends to conduct random inspections at least monthly, creating a continuous cycle of review rather than a one-off compliance check.
Mendoza underscored a cultural shift: “Let us do away with the old practice wherein transport companies do not really care about their passengers. Remember that your passengers are your lifeline in business—respect them with clean, presentable, and comfortable waiting areas.” This statement frames the UNDAS readiness as a business and public service obligation, reinforcing that passenger welfare aligns with the sector’s long-term viability.
Booking processes and passenger comfort
Beyond physical facilities, the directive also highlights the importance of an orderly and user-friendly booking experience. Operators are instructed to ensure that ticketing and reservation processes are accessible and efficient, reducing confusion and delays that often frustrate travelers during peak travel periods. A smooth booking system is viewed as a critical extension of terminal comfort and overall safety.
Why this matters for travelers
The Undas exodus places extraordinary demand on public transportation networks. For travelers, the LTFRB’s actions translate into tangible improvements: cleaner spaces, reliable facilities, safer rides, and a more predictable travel experience during one of the year’s busiest travel windows. If successfully implemented, these measures could become standard practice year-round, elevating the overall quality of service and passenger trust.
What to expect on the ground
During the enforcement period, passengers should observe improved cleanliness in restrooms and waiting areas, clearer signage, and a more seamless booking or boarding process. Terminal managers and operators will be held to monthly checks, ensuring that the improvements aren’t temporary but embedded into routine operations. Travelers are encouraged to report any lapses to LTFRB hotlines or through local regional offices so corrective action can be taken promptly.
As the Undas season approaches, the LTFRB’s push for better terminals embodies a shift toward a more passenger-centric public transport culture in the Philippines. With mystery riders in place and a commitment to monthly audits, the cornerstone of this policy is clear: every traveler deserves a safe, clean, and comfortable journey home for the holidays.
