THE Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, reminded public utility vehicle (PUV) operators to adhere to passenger capacity limits.
This warning reiterates the "anti-sardinas" directive from Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon, which aims to prevent the dangerous practice of overloading.
Anti-sardinas is the overloading of passengers in a manner resembling canned sardines.
"The LTFRB under Chairperson Atty. Teofilo E. Guadiz III, CESO V, reminds all PUV operators to strictly adhere to and comply with the allowable passenger capacity of their PUVs pursuant to the existing policies of the Board and the DOTr,” the agency said.
Drivers who violate the policy face fines and penalties.
The LTFRB outlined specific passenger capacities:
- Traditional jeepneys: Allowed 12 to 32 passengers, not exceeding the manufacturer’s maximum capacity.
- Modern jeepneys: Allowed 12 to 32 sitting passengers and a maximum of five standing passengers per square meter of available standing space.
- UV Express vans: Allowed nine to 12 passengers.
- Public utility buses (PUBs): Allowed 50 passengers or more, not exceeding the manufacturer’s maximum capacity. Standing passengers are permitted, but limited to five persons per square meter of available standing space.
However, standing passengers are strictly prohibited on long-haul trips.
The "anti-sardinas" policy seeks to improve commuter safety and comfort on public transportation. (TPM/SunStar Philippines)