LTFRB: Bus drivers may only drive for 6 hours

Bus conductors cannot be alternate drivers so they could provide continuous assistance to passengers. (Photo: davocano/ Flickr)

MANILA–The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) is urging public utility bus drivers (PUBs) to drive for only six hours to prevent fatigue, which results in road accidents.

In its memorandum, the LTFRB stated that an alternate driver must be on standby to take over in case the driving period exceeds six hours.

Bus conductors cannot be alternate drivers so they could provide continuous assistance to passengers.

“Driver fatigue is a serious problem resulting in many road mishaps,” the LTFRB stated.

The policy will be implemented effective Sunday, April 9.

Noncompliance with the directive will be subject to penalties amounting to PHP5,000 for first offense, PHP10,000 and suspension of 30 days for second offense, and suspension of 60 days for third offense.

If the violation results in a vehicular accident causing damage to property or death and injuries to people, the LTFRB will consider it as an aggravating circumstance in the determination of penalty to be imposed as a consequence of the accident.