LTFRB-7 issues show-cause order to PUV operator for overloading

Local

THE Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board-Central Visayas (LTFRB-7) is investigating a case of overloading involving a modern public utility jeepney (MPUJ) in Mandaue City.

The incident, which has gone viral on social media, raised concerns about safety and compliance with transport regulations.

In the video, a passenger was seen dangerously clinging to the side of the MPUJ.

The LTFRB-7 has prepared a show-cause order against the operator of the overloaded unit.

LTFRB 7 Regional Director Eduardo Montealto Jr. said the order was finalized on Thursday, March 6, 2025, and would be served the following day.

"Overloading gyud to siya. Giprepare na namo ang show cause order kaganiha," Montealto said

The agency is also locating the vehicle involved to ensure enforcement of the penalty.

Although the video showed the driver allowing excessive passengers on board, Montealto clarified that the operator would be held accountable.

Under LTFRB regulations, a first offense for overloading carries a P5,000 fine. A second violation results in a P10,000 penalty, while a third offense leads to a P15,000 fine and a 30-day suspension of operations.

LTFRB 7 is also verifying whether the driver had committed similar violations in the past, which could result in stricter penalties.

Modern jeepneys, introduced under the government's Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP), are designed to accommodate standing passengers, unlike traditional jeepneys.

However, Montealto explained that MPUJs have a strict limit of only 10 standing passengers at a time. Any excess beyond that is considered overloading.

The modernization program aims to replace old, smoke-belching jeepneys with safer and more environmentally friendly vehicles. However, some operators have been caught violating capacity limits, risking passenger safety for higher earnings.

Montealto encouraged passengers and the public to report any overloading incidents to LTFRB-7 so appropriate actions could be taken.

He stressed that passengers should be aware of their rights and report any situation that compromises their safety.

Complaints can be lodged through LTFRB’s hotline or official social media pages, where authorities actively monitor reports.

The LTFRB, in coordination with the Land Transportation Office, the Highway Patrol Group, and local traffic enforcers, will intensify its crackdown on overloading and other violations by public utility vehicles.

Montealto warned that operators who repeatedly break transport laws could face additional sanctions, including franchise suspension or revocation.

According to Montealto, overloading increases the risk of accidents and endangers both passengers and pedestrians. He emphasized that safety should never be compromised.(MyTVCebu)