WHAT is perceived to be anti–probinsiyano law has been opposed by Baguio lawmakers.
Councilor Betty Lourdes Tabanda, in a resolution, urged an in-depth study of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) and Metro Manila Development Authority [MMDA] order on the provincial bus ban.
“This scheme, once implemented, would entail a lot of inconvenience, longer travel time hence, additional time, and economic costs for the commuters. It is extremely burdensome, especially for the disadvantaged groups such as the elderly, the PWDs, the pregnant, and those who are physically challenged. The scheme is also labeled as anti-poor as of the most passengers are those who could only afford a public transport to ferry them to and from Metro Manila,” Tabanda said.
The lady councilor said while the scheme may ease Edsa of provincial buses, it will congest the ITXs with provincial passengers. The same number of passengers taken off Edsa would still traverse Edsa aboard city buses. This may bring an increased number of city buses plying Edsa just to meet the demands.
“A thorough study must be undertaken by the concerned agencies, taking into consideration the negative effects it may bring to the people. It is certainly not economically viable, especially to the minimum wage earners who patronize public transport,” Tabanda added.
Tabanda said the scheme will entail commuters from North Luzon to get off in Valenzuela and take another bus going to Metro Manila, which would hamper travel time as well as inconvenience the riding public.
The resolution was approved by the entire council and was deemed to be authored by everyone in a show of unison opposing the measure and will be forwarded to the LTFRB and the MMDA.