How many times have commuters found themselves in public transport terminals where vans, jeepneys, and buses line up, but with no working toilets and the air thick with the stench of urine? In some cases, waiting areas lack adequate seating, while proper garbage bins are nowhere to be found.

For many Filipinos, such conditions have long been dismissed with a resigned ganun talaga (it is what it is) before simply boarding the next ride. But this mindset does not sit well with Atty. Vigor Mendoza II, chairperson of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).

The agency recently flagged more than a hundred public utility vehicle (PUV) terminals for various violations, including non-functioning comfort rooms and substandard passenger facilities, showing the agency’s serious push to improve commuter welfare and enforce basic standards in transport hubs.

“We will not hesitate to shut down the operations of these terminal managers, some of them are connected with transportation companies. The agreement is clear: the government authorizes them to operate a terminal under the condition that they will provide the basic facilities to ensure passenger comfort and safety,” said Mendoza.

Mendoza further said that some terminal operators appear to act as though commuters owe them a debt of gratitude, with certain facilities even charging passengers for the use of toilets.

“But some of them already reached the point of shamelessness na parang lumalabas na utang na loob pa ng mga pasahero ang operation dahil may mga terminal pa nga na sinisingil ng bayad ang mga pasahero sa paggamit ng CR,” added Mendoza.

As of February 16, the agency reported that a total of 243 bus and public utility vehicle (PUV) terminals nationwide had been inspected. Of the 243 terminals inspected, 116 were issued show-cause orders (SCOs) and notices to comply.

The violations cited include inadequate facilities to protect waiting passengers from the weather, non-functioning toilets, and cramped spaces that compromise passenger comfort and safety. Other reported violations include insufficient security measures and the absence of accessible, comfortable facilities for senior citizens and persons with disabilities.