LTFRB-8 Warns PUV Operators Against Overcharging Ahead of Undas

Posted on October 25, 2026 at 5:08 PM

Tacloban City — The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) Region VIII has stepped up its monitoring of public utility vehicles ahead of the Undas travel rush, warning drivers and operators against overcharging passengers and refusing to grant mandatory fare discounts.

LTFRB-8 Director Gualberto Gualberto said the agency acts on complaints involving unauthorized fare collections and the denial of discounts for students, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities (PWDs).

The regional office issues Show Cause Orders to drivers and operators facing such complaints, requiring them to appear before the agency and explain their side.

Those found violating fare regulations face fines starting at P5,000. Repeat offenses may lead to heavier penalties, including the suspension or cancellation of their franchises, depending on the applicable rules.

Passengers who encounter fare overcharging or discount violations may submit written complaints or send messages through the LTFRB-8’s official Facebook page and other social media channels.

As travelers are expected to flock to bus terminals and other transport hubs for Undas, the agency will also deploy personnel to set up help desks at terminals across Eastern Visayas.

The deployment is scheduled to start next week, ahead of the November 1 holiday, to assist passengers and receive complaints.

LTFRB-8 is also coordinating with the Land Transportation Office (LTO) for random driver testing at passenger terminals to check whether drivers are fit to operate their vehicles.

The inspections are part of the agencies’ efforts to keep public transportation safe during the holiday travel period.

The LTFRB reminded commuters to report fare violations so the agency can investigate complaints and hold erring drivers and operators accountable.

Photos by: Jazmin Bonifacio