LTFRB Seeks Exemption for Transport Programs During Election Ban

MANILA, Philippines — The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has asked the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to exempt some of its programs from the fund disbursement prohibition during the election period. The LTFRB has specifically requested exemptions for its service contracting, fuel subsidy, and public transport modernization programs. Acting LTFRB Chairman Greg Pua Jr. stated in a letter to Comelec Chairman George Garcia on September 15 that free EDSA busway rides, Love Buses, and fuel discounts are not election-related expenses. He explained that these programs aim to assist the public amidst the economic pressures caused by the Middle East conflict. The LTFRB is currently facilitating the release of assistance packages to modern public transport operators, covering up to three months of their monthly loan amortization and operational expenses. This move comes as transport groups have been calling for fare increases due to the rising cost of petroleum products. Pua emphasized that interrupting these programs during elections could disrupt the delivery of essential public transportation services. He further committed that the implementation of these programs would remain subject to objective eligibility requirements, proper documentation, validation, accounting, and auditing rules, along with safeguards prescribed by Comelec, and would involve no participation from candidates or political parties. The LTFRB's plea underscores the challenges faced by the government in ensuring the continuity of public services while navigating election regulations, especially in an environment of rising inflation and global economic uncertainties.