DABAWENYOS have mixed reactions with the recent memorandum of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), allowing pets in all public utility vehicles (PUVs).
On Friday, April 26, LTFRB announced through their official Facebook page, Memorandum Circular (MC) 2019-019, amending the Par. 24 of the MC No. 2011-004 allowing pets aboard all PUVs provided that these animals are put inside carriers/cages and placed at designated animal compartment of the PUV taking into consideration the other PUV passengers.
The agency also said pets must be free from foul odor and that owners should maintain the pets’ cleanliness and sanitation. Pet owners will be responsible for the damage that their pets may cause, including the cleaning and sanitation of the PUV.
“Safety, convenience and comfort of the passengers shall not in any way be sacrificed,” the LTFRB memo stated.
Netizens lauded the move, although some questioned what type of compartment these pets will be placed.
Some were asking if the compartment is a custom-made just for animals or is it in the baggage compartment area.
Wilfred V. Daquipil, a bus driver, raised sanitation, health, and safety concerns with the memo.
“Dili ko musugot, kay inkaso pareha sa iro, malibang o mangihi unya aircon, manihamo jud na unya apektado tanan pasahero,” Daquipil said.
Although he agreed putting the pets in the compartment, he said owners will not be assured if the pets will reach their destination alive.
Marites Batacan, founder of Animal Rescue, Rehabilitation and Fostering (ARRF), said the owners should be responsible in placing their pets in a carrier when riding inside the PUVs.
Batacan, one of those who petitioned personally to LTFRB chairman Martin Delgra, said some owners who wanted to bring their pets to the veterinary for checkup are having a hard time because some PUV drivers do not allow them.
Batacan also reacted to some who are allergic to certain pets.
“Dili man na maka-allergy ang balahibo sa pet. It’s the dander, kanang abog nga mupilit sa balahibo sa iro.”
She then reminded pet owners to be responsible in handling their pets in public transportation in order not to disturb passengers.