DOTr to bus operators: Overcharging may be ground for franchise suspension or revocation

MANILA — The Department of Transportation (DOTr) said Monday it was investigating eight bus companies for possible overcharging of fares.  

DOTr Secretary Giovanni Lopez reminded bus operators that the government has not approved a fare hike and that overcharging may be a ground for franchise suspension or revocation.

“Makikiusap na rin po ako sa ating mga bus operators. Ang ating mga pamasahe po ay regulated. So ang pagpapataw ng pamasahe na higit doon sa aprubadong pamasahe ay yan po ay sinasabi nating overcharging and may be a ground for the suspension or revocation of your franchises. So iwasan po natin yan,” Lopez said.

“Sa ating mga kababayan naman po at na, nabiktima o nakaranas ng ganitong pagtataas ng mga pamasahe na walang pahintulot mula sa LTFRB, iparating niyo po sa LTFRB, sa LTO, sa DOTR, sa ating mga social media,” he added.

HOLY WEEK RUSH

Lopez, meanwhile, assured that there were enough buses for Holy Week with the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) issuing more than 1,200 special permits nationwide.

“Manageable po ang ating mga supply ng buses,” Lopez said.

Filipinos are expected to flock to their provinces this Holy Week, but authorities have said that soaring fuel prices may put a damper on some Easter holiday plans. 

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