IN preparation for the expected rush of millions of Filipinos heading to the provinces for All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) will begin accepting applications for special bus permits on September 21, 2026.
The early processing timeline complies with directives from Department of Transportation Secretary Giovanni “Banoy” Z. Lopez to guarantee safe, reliable, and sufficient road transport options for holiday travelers.
LTFRB Acting Chairman Atty. Greg G. Pua, Jr. announced that the official filing window will run from September 21 to October 2.
The early schedule gives inspectors ample time to thoroughly verify documents and assess the roadworthiness of participating vehicles.
“This is an annual travel for a large number of our kababayan, and on the part of the LTFRB, our early preparations are intended to ensure their safe and comfortable travel to and from their home provinces,” Pua said, noting that the goal is to completely prevent passengers from getting stranded at terminals.
Approved special permits will be valid from October 28 through November 6, covering the peak travel period around the observance of “Undas.”
During last year’s holiday rush, the agency granted special permits to over 800 public utility buses.
Bus operators seeking permits must submit proof of registration (OR/CR), valid Personal Passenger Accident Insurance, and formal corporate authorization documents. Additionally, the LTFRB has instituted strict operational conditions:
- Operators may only apply for up to 50% of their total authorized fleet per route.
- Participating vehicles must not exceed 14 years of age from their date of manufacture.
- Applicants must specify exact terminal addresses at both ends of the requested route.
Pua assured operators of a transparent process, emphasizing Secretary Lopez’s order prohibiting any favoritism or corrupt practices.
Chairman Pua urged applicants to immediately report any irregularities to the LTFRB Hotline 1342 or through official social media channels.
