LTFRB sets the pace for Undas travel preparations
As millions of Filipinos prepare for All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days, commonly known as Undas, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) is tightening oversight on bus companies and transport operators. The agency has ordered all operators to prioritize cleanliness and comfort in their terminals and stations to ensure a smooth, safe, and respectful travel experience for passengers during the peak exodus.
Direct orders from LTFRB chairman
LTFRB chairman Vigor D. Mendoza II announced that regional directors have been instructed to enforce the directive through random and surprise inspections beginning next week. “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,” Mendoza said.
Beyond aesthetics, the chairman stressed safety across all modes of public transport. He emphasized that buses and other vehicles, as well as drivers and conductors, must meet safety standards to ensure passengers reach their destinations safely and comfortably.
What the inspections will cover
Millions are expected to travel during the Undas period, with the exodus often beginning in the last week of October. To guarantee compliance, LTFRB will deploy mystery passengers nationwide starting Oct. 24 to assess the condition of bus stations and transport terminals. These checks will look at several key areas, including: cleanliness of facilities, safety features, and the overall passenger experience.
Cleanliness and accessibility as a baseline requirement
Mendoza highlighted specific standards that must be met, notably the cleanliness, lighting, and ventilation of comfort rooms. Restrooms should be functioning properly, well-lit, well-ventilated, and offered at no cost or at a minimal fee to passengers. Comfortable and convenient waiting areas are also mandatory, reflecting LTFRB’s push toward more passenger-friendly terminals.
Monthly verification to sustain improvements
The leadership’s push is not a temporary measure. Mendoza stated that these will become regular checks, with random inspections conducted at least once a month throughout the year. The aim is to maintain consistent quality in service, not just during peak travel times.
Booking processes and passenger experience
Another focus of the directive is the passenger booking process. Operators and terminal managers are urged to ensure booking systems are user-friendly and accessible to all travelers, reducing friction and improving overall satisfaction. By prioritizing clean facilities, efficient operations, and accessible services, LTFRB hopes to build trust among travelers and improve the reliability of intercity journeys during Undas and beyond.
What this means for commuters
For the traveling public, the LTFRB’s directive signals stronger accountability for transport operators. Passengers can expect more orderly terminals, better restrooms, brighter and safer waiting areas, and smoother check-in experiences. While inspections will be surprise, the long-term goal is a standard of service that prioritizes passenger welfare alongside safety and efficiency.
Looking ahead
As Undas approaches, operators and terminal managers will be closely monitored to ensure compliance. The LTFRB’s stance reflects a broader shift toward professionalizing the passenger experience and recognizing travelers as a core element of the transportation system’s success. Passengers are encouraged to report unsafe conditions or service lapses to local LTFRB offices or through official channels to help sustain improvements beyond the Undas season.
