The LTFRB (Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board) prohibited For-Hire Trucks more than 15 years or more from operating in Philippine highways.
Philippine Truckers Association protested. The Truck operators conducted a small program in front of the LTFRB office to let their sentiments be heard.
The protesters’ caravan of more or less 200 trucks caused severe traffic congestion in East Avenue Quezon City where the LTFRB office is located.
The Truckers Associations argument was that the LTFRB must not prohibit the operation of the For-Hire trucks. LTFRB must give them time where to put those trucks that will be phased out.
According to the truckers association, there are 300,000 registered trucks transporting goods to and from Metro Manila. 80% of these trucks according to the Philippine Truckers are more than 15 years old.
Teddy Gervacio, the President of the Integrated North Harbor Truckers association that prohibiting the operation of these trucks will have a detrimental effect on the economy. The bottom line, he said, is that there will be a shortage of trucks and more demand for cargo which is worst than the presently implemented daylight truck ban.
The Truckers association recognizes the safety-first policy when operating their trucks but the trucks’ age should not be the sole basis for the phase-out or prohibition but the real condition of the trucks.
LTFRB argued that the policy has been implemented since the year 2012 and this should give the truckers enough time to replace their aging fleet of old trucks.
Atty. Winston Ginez, The LTFRB Chairman, said that it is the intention of the government to push for a roadworthy vehicle. At present what the LTFRB is doing is to prohibit the operation of vehicles 15 years or more in age but we are open to discussion he further said.
Those caught operating despite the prohibition will be considered as colorum (without a franchise) and will be subjected to a 200,000 peso fine. Aside from the fine, the offending truck will be impounded.
2nd or more violation will cause the total revocation of the operator of the offending trucks.
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