MANILA, Philippines – The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Tuesday called on public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers, operators and passengers to undertake appropriate measures to prevent the spread of illnesses amid the threat of novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in the country.
In an advisory, the LTFRB strongly urged PUV drivers and conductors to wear face masks at all times while on duty, as stated on the Memorandum Circular (MC) 2020-005 issued recently.
The agency also reminded terminal operators to ensure proper sanitation and cleanliness in their premises.
Face masks, disinfectants or sanitizers for free use of passengers should also be provided by transport operators, the LTFRB said.
Public transport providers are also urged to sanitize their vehicle units using hospital-grade disinfectants before and after deployment, and to be “wary of anyone manifesting symptoms of infection.”
The agency likewise called on transport operators to avoid overcrowding in public buses, and to work with health authorities by reporting suspected coronavirus cases.
“Passengers are encouraged to participate in the conduct of these measures by disinfecting their seats before and after use,” the LTFRB said.
“The Board calls out all drivers and operators to be reminded of their responsibility to provide a safe and reliable public transportation system to the riding public—now, more than ever,” it added.
The agency issued the reminder following President Rodrigo Duterte’s declaration of a state of public health emergency as recommended by the Department of Health.
As of posting, the Philippines has 33 confirmed coronavirus cases.
The post LTFRB ‘strongly urges’ PUV drivers, passengers to wear face masks amid COVID-19 fears appeared first on UNTV News.