THE Traffic Enforcement Agency of Mandaue (Team) has begun its intensified enforcement of the “anti-sardinas” policy, which limits standing passengers in public utility jeepneys (PUJs) to only 10, to prevent overcrowding.
Team head Hyll Retuya, in an interview on Wednesday, Aug. 6, 2025, said 10 Land Transportation Office-deputized enforcers have been deployed to conduct daily inspections across major routes in Mandaue City, particularly areas prone to overloading during rush hours.
The effort is a direct response to a national order from the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), which recently reiterated the policy due to worsening congestion and safety concerns.
“Other LGUs (local government units) may not be strict yet, but we, in Mandaue, will implement this seriously for the safety of the riding public,” said Retuya.
The “anti-sardinas” policy, named after the image of commuters packed like sardines inside PUJs, is a directive under the LTFRB designed to reduce vehicle overloading, especially in urban routes.
Retuya said Team’s decision was also a response to several commuter complaints and social media posts showing overcrowded PUJs operating in violation of capacity rules.
“We need to instill discipline among drivers and operators. Anything beyond 10 standing passengers is already considered overloading. And for buses with classroom-type seating, there should be zero standing passengers,” Retuya said.
Violators will be issued a Temporary Operator’s Permit (TOP), which carries a fine of P1,000 to P5,000, depending on the violation and whether it is a repeat offense.
Multiple infractions may lead to suspension or revocation of the driver’s franchise, according to LTFRB guidelines.
Penalized
Last Monday, Aug. 4, Retuya confirmed the Team issued its first TOP under this intensified operation to a PUJ driver who was caught carrying more than 15 standing passengers during peak hours.
The 10 standing passenger limit applies specifically to modern PUJs.
For traditional jeepneys, Retuya said the limit depends on the registered capacity indicated on the vehicle’s franchise.
Meanwhile, no standing passengers are allowed in long-distance provincial buses with fixed seating.
All revenue collected from the fines will be remitted to the LTO, as required by law.
Retuya called on commuters to report overloaded vehicles through Team’s official Facebook page, and asked for the public’s cooperation and understanding. / CAV