THE LAND Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) reiterated on Tuesday the passenger capacity limits for public utility vehicles (PUVs) to ensure safe public transportation.
This is in line with the “anti-sardinas” order from the Department of Transportation, which prohibits the overloading of passengers.
“The LTFRB under chairperson Atty. Teofilo E. Guadiz III, CESO V, reminds all public utility vehicles (PUVs) operators to strictly adhere to and comply with the allowable passenger capacity of their PUVs pursuant to the existing policies of the Board and DOTr,” the advisory reads.
Anti-Sardinas, as defined by the agency, is the overloading of passengers in a manner like canned sardines.
The LTFRB provided specific capacity per unit:
- Traditional Jeepneys: 12 to 32 passengers are allowed but shall not exceed the allowable maximum capacity based on the manufacturer’s specification;
- Modern Jeepneys: allowed 12 to 32 sitting passengers not exceeding allowable maximum capacity based on the manufacturer’s specification, and must not exceed five persons per square meter of the available standing space.
- UV Express Vans, on the other hand, are allowed 9 passengers including driver for AUVs (Mitsubishi Adventure, Isuzu Crosswind/Highlander), and 10 passengers including driver for regular Vans (Toyota Hi-Ace, Nissan Urvan Shuttle, Hyundai Grace).
For extended Vans such as Nissan Urvan, Toyota Hi-Ace Commuter, 12 passengers including the driver, or maybe more, are allowed, provided it does not exceed the allowable maximum capacity based on the manufacturer’s specification.
Meanwhile, for public utility buses, 50 sitting passengers or more are allowed, not exceeding the manufacturer’s allowable maximum capacity.
If standing passengers are permitted in PUBs, it should not exceed five persons per square meter of the available standing space. However, standing passengers on long-haul trips are strictly prohibited.
Violators will be imposed fines and penalties, and/or subject to suspension or cancellation of the certificate of public convenience.
