IN RESPONSE to the complaints against the use of vans, Mount Pulag National Park advised vehicle owners to apply for a franchise at the Land Transportation Office (LTO).
An advisory by the management of the park released December 24 said the LTO will start checking vehicles used to ferry tourists by 2019.
“Be advised to be vigilant in registering with tourist’s organizers or the use of utility vans without LTO franchise for tourists,” the advisory added. “Your vigilance will save you from inconvenience and problems in the event that the LTO implements checking operations along the roads leading to the park.”
The Mount Pulag management added the notice is based on recent complaints they have received from commuters in the area.
“We will regret to see tourists stranded along the way to the park. We are aware there are interested groups that may cause the crackdown. We can only pray that concerned agency implements solution to the issues so that there would be enough transport vehicles with franchise for tourists,” the advisory continued.
Meanwhile, Victor Gorinto, Protected Area superintendent, declared that from January 1 to 2 and January 15 to 16, there will be no trekking and hiking activities at the park via Babadak Trail or Ambangeg trail.
Also, treks going to the summit and grassland during the remaining days of December 2018 remain fully booked.
Mount Pulag, located in Kabayan, Benguet, is dubbed as the playground of the gods as it is the third highest peak in the Philippines and is home to many species of highland flora and fauna.