PUV drivers face fines for passengers' bad behaviour-LTFRB

Public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers and operators not only face fines for sexually harassing passengers, but also if they fail to address their passengers’ untoward conduct toward fellow passengers. In a memorandum circular released on March 21, the Land Transportation and Franchising Regulatory Board (LTFRB) said this is in line with Republic Act 11313, the Safe Spaces Act, which provides protective measures and prescribes penalties against gender-based sexual harassment, a term that covers any conduct that may cause mental, emotional or psychological distress.
    This includes unwanted comments or sexual remarks, comments, threats, cursing, catcalling, leering and slurs as well as relentless requests for personal information and showing private parts.
    Sexual harassment also includes taking and uploading photos, video and audio recordings without consent, cyberstalking and online identity theft.
    “To maintain the safety and convenience of the passengers, it is incumbent upon PUV operators to ensure that no acts of gender-based harassment are committed inside PUVs,” the LTFRB said.
    Under Memorandum Circular 2023-016, a PUV operator, driver, conductor or employee faces a P5,000 fine and suspension of the involved vehicle for six months if they commit any act of sexual harassment.
    A second offense merits a P10,000 fine and suspension of the vehicle for one year while a third offense means a P15,000 fine and revocation of the certificate of public convenience (CPC).
    Operators who fail to prevent, act on or report the sexual harassment of passengers face a P5,000 fine for the first offense.
    For a second offense, operators will be meted a P10,000 fine, with the vehicle suspended for three months. A third offense carries a P15,000 fine and revocation of the CPC.
    PUVs should also have a “Bawal ang Bastos” signage posted inside the vehicles, the LTFRB said.