What Are These Rules?

The 2011 Revised Rules of Practice and Procedure are the official guidelines that explain how cases and applications should be handled before the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).

It sets the step-by-step process for transport operators, drivers, and the public who need to apply for a franchise, renewals, permits, or file complaints about public transport services.

What is the LTFRB?

Term Meaning

LTFRB Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board

Main Role Regulate and supervise public land transportation services like buses, jeepneys, taxis, TNVS (like Grab), school service vehicles, tourist buses, and UV Express.

Goal Ensure public transportation is safe, reliable, accessible, and affordable.

Purposes of the 2011 Revised Rules

Purpose Explanation

Orderly Procedure Make LTFRB processes clear and organized for everyone.

Transparency Ensure fairness and public participation in applications and hearings.

Faster Service Shorten the time needed for applications and cases.

Accountability Set clear rights and responsibilities for operators and the LTFRB itself.

Scope: Who Must Follow These Rules?

• Franchise applicants for public vehicles (buses, jeepneys, taxis, TNVS, etc.)

• Operators requesting renewal, amendments, or transfer of franchises.

• Private citizens filing complaints against public transport operators.

• Transport companies (local and foreign) applying for authority.

• Government agencies dealing with LTFRB actions.

Important Parts of the 2011 Revised Rules

Here’s a simple breakdown of the major parts:

1. Filing Applications and Petitions

• Must be in writing and verified (sworn statement that it’s true).

• Should state facts clearly and attach required documents (like vehicle registration, insurance papers, proof of garage, etc.).

• Pay the correct filing fees.
  
  

Common Applications:

• New Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC)

• Extension or amendment of CPC

• Renewal of CPC

• Dropping and substitution of units

• Change of route
  
  

2. Service of Notice and Hearing

1. Applicants and other parties must be notified properly (publication in newspapers, personal notice).

2. A Public Hearing will be scheduled where:

   • The applicant presents evidence.

   • Oppositors (people objecting) can question or challenge the application.
     
     

3. Opposition to Applications

1. Any person or company can file an opposition if they believe:

• • The applicant does not deserve the franchise.

  • The service will cause unfair competition.

  • The public interest will not be served.

2. Oppositions must also be in writing and properly filed.
   
   

4. Hearing and Presentation of Evidence

1. LTFRB officers act as judges.

2. Applicants must prove they are capable of operating the service (financial capacity, operational ability, good moral character).

3. Evidence includes:

   • Driver’s license, registration, garage ownership, tax payments, etc.

4. Both sides are allowed to present witnesses and documents.
   
   

5. Decisions and Orders

1. After hearing, LTFRB will issue a decision.

2. Decisions may:

   • Grant a franchise

   • Approve changes or renewal

   • Deny the application

   • Suspend or revoke an existing CPC

3. Decisions must be in writing, clear, and explain the reasons.
   
   

6. Appeals. If a party disagrees with the LTFRB decision, they can appeal to the Office of the Secretary of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) within 15 days.

7. Special Rules

LTFRB also has special procedures for:

• • Temporary authorities (short-term permits for emergencies)

  • Tourist transport services

  • School services

  • TNVS accreditation (Transport Network Vehicles like Grab)

  • Cooperative-managed public vehicles

Why Are These Rules Important?

Reason Explanation

Fairness Everyone, rich or poor, follows the same process when dealing with LTFRB.

Protection The public is protected against unsafe, unregulated public vehicles.

Transparency People can oppose unfair or illegal applications.

Efficiency Makes it faster to get approvals or solve disputes.

Agencies Connected to LTFRB Procedures

Agency Role

LTFRB (Main) Handles the hearings, decisions, and regulations.

Department of Transportation (DOTr) Supervises the LTFRB; handles appeals.

Land Transportation Office (LTO) Registers vehicles and issues drivers’ licenses (support work).

Other Agencies Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for emission compliance, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) for road regulations.

in Simple Words:

• If you want to operate a public vehicle (like a bus, jeepney, taxi, or Grab car), you must follow LTFRB rules.

• You apply, attend hearings, show your documents, and wait for LTFRB’s decision.

• Other people can oppose your application if they have valid reasons.

• If LTFRB says no, you can appeal.

• Everything must be clear, fair, and according to public interest.

Conclusion

The 2011 Revised Rules of Practice and Procedure Before the LTFRB are a roadmap for anyone who wants to legally operate a public transport vehicle in the Philippines.

 It ensures that the public transport system is safe, organized, and fair to all operators and passengers.
Understanding these rules is important not only for transport operators but also for the public who rely on them every day!