The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) in the Philippines has streamlined the renewal procedure for public utility vehicle franchises by removing the mandatory formal hearing requirement.
In a significant administrative update, the Philippines’ Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) announced the abolition of formal hearings in franchise renewal applications for certificates of public convenience (CPC). LTFRB Chairperson Vigor Mendoza II stated that operators who have consistently provided reliable public transportation service no longer need to attend hearings to extend their CPC validity. This decision distinguishes franchise renewal from first-time applications, as the necessity for the service and the operator’s qualifications have already been established. The CPC, which authorizes the operation of public utility vehicles (PUVs), will now be renewed based on proof of continued compliance with previous franchise conditions without requiring a formal hearing. This reform aligns with the Philippine government’s broader push for ease of doing business, as directed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., and adheres to the Public Service Act and related regulations. The LTFRB also introduced a requirement for all operators to maintain a valid working email address to facilitate communication and digital document submissions, enhancing efficiency and modernization efforts. These moves aim to simplify procedures, making them more convenient for transport operators and ultimately benefiting millions of commuters.
Sources referenced:
- https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/988401/ltfrb-franchise-renewal-process/story/