MARIKINA CITY — The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) is turning to the riding public to help purge the country’s roads of abusive drivers and dilapidated vehicles.
This week, the agency officially launched “Komyu-Konek,” a commuter service program designed to streamline how passengers report public utility vehicle (PUV) violations. The initiative aims to transform ordinary commuters into active monitors of transport standards by strengthening the agency’s hotlines and digital reporting platforms.
During the launch, LTFRB Chairperson Atty. Vigor Mendoza II sent a sharp warning to operators who neglect their units or mistreat passengers.
“Passengers deserve more; passengers deserve better transport services. Hindi puwede yung puwede na (Mediocrity is not enough),” Mendoza said.
Mendoza noted that the program aligns with a directive from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to elevate public transport to a level where even private car owners would feel encouraged to commute.
The launch follows a busy weekend for the LTFRB, which recently summoned the operators of a taxi and a passenger bus for operating “unsanitary and unsightly” units. Furthermore, over 120 notices of violations and show-cause orders (SCOs) were issued against various bus and PUV terminals found with run-down facilities.
Komyu-Konek is intended to sustain this momentum by providing a direct line for the public to flag erring drivers, or those overcharging, snubbing passengers, or driving recklessly; dilapidated units, or vehicles that are physically unsafe or poorly maintained; and substandard terminals or facilities with broken amenities or unsanitary conditions.
To facilitate faster evidence gathering, the agency has modernized its intake process. Commuters are encouraged to send photos and videos of violations via Viber (0956-761-0739) or through the LTFRB’s official Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) accounts.
Traditional reporting remains available via email ([email protected] and [email protected]) or through walk-in complaints at the agency’s regional offices.
Under the guidance of Department of Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez, the LTFRB views public cooperation as the “missing link” in transport reform. By providing a transparent feedback loop, the agency hopes to ensure that reported grievances result in actual sanctions or repairs.