LTFRB 7 backs mandatory Covid-19 testing for PUV drivers

THE Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board Central Visayas (LTFRB-7) will support the proposal of Senator Grace Poe to conduct mandatory Covid-19 testing for public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers.

LTFRB-7 Director Eduardo Montealto Jr. said the proposal is good as long the government conducts the test for free.

Poe’s proposal is for all drivers who will return to work once a general community quarantine will be declared in an area. The mandatory testing is also to protect them, their families and the commuters once they hit the roads.

Montealto added that the proposal still needs further study to have clear guidelines and precaution in conducting the mandatory testing wherein aside from the drivers, the commuters should also undergo mandatory testing.

He said he agrees with the proposal as long as the authorities also consider and think of a winning solution.

Piston chairman Greg Perez said their drivers don’t have any qualms about the mandatory test as long as it is provided by the government and for free.

He added that they agree with the proposal as long as their drivers can go back to work since it is their only source of income.

Benjamin Yu, chairman of the Cebu Integrated Transport Service Cooperative (Citrasco), said they will welcome the mandatory testing if it will ensure the safety and well-being of their drivers and everyone. (JCT)