Senator Raffy Tulfo is calling for stricter safety rules in public seaports and bus terminals nationwide after uncovering numerous violations in these transportation hubs.
Tulfo identified several areas that require improvement at seaports and bus terminals during surprise visits to Binangonan Port and bus terminals in Pasay, Parañaque, and Cubao, Quezon City.
During a public hearing held by the Committee on Public Services on Thursday, the senator pointed out the lack of insurance for overcrowded boats and the use of inadequate life jackets. He also highlighted serious bus violations at terminals, such as the absence of fire extinguishers, CCTV cameras, and maintenance logs.
Additionally, he noted that the restrooms in some bus stations are unfit for use, and some drivers have tested positive for drug use.
Tulfo stressed the importance of management at ports and bus terminals ensuring that the services provided to the public are safe, efficient, and convenient.
Among the terminals inspected by Tulfo were Buendia Bus Liner (BBL), DLTB Bus Co., JAM Transit, JAC Liner, LLI Bus Terminal, Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX), Five Star Bus Terminal, and Baliwag Bus Liner Terminal.
He also mentioned several past incidents in which only the bus driver and conductor survived serious accidents, while passengers were trapped inside burning buses, making rescue efforts challenging.
Some bus terminals in Pasay City were also found collecting fees for passengers using restroom facilities, which violates Republic Act 11311 signed by former President Rodrigo Duterte in 2019.
