LTFRB expedites permits for 1,003 extra buses ahead of Undas

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) is accelerating the approval of special permits for 1,003 additional buses to serve increased travel demand during the Undas holidays. Acting LTFRB Chairman Greg Pua announced that the board has processed 356 applications covering the vehicles, which will be deployed on various routes nationwide during the extended holiday period.

The expedited permitting process reflects efforts to ease transportation capacity constraints as Filipino families traditionally travel to provincial hometowns and cemeteries during All Saints' Day on November 1 and All Souls' Day on November 2. The additional buses are expected to supplement regular service and help prevent overcrowding on major routes.

The LTFRB's fast-track approach allows bus operators to deploy vehicles quickly without the standard lengthy approval procedures. This mechanism has been used in previous years during peak travel periods to ensure adequate public transportation is available during holidays and special occasions.

Authorities anticipate significant vehicular traffic and passenger volume during the Undas season, making the deployment of extra buses critical to maintaining service levels and ensuring public safety on long-distance routes throughout the archipelago.