LTFRB to Weed Out Discriminatory ‘Slim Only’ Signs in Public Transport

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) warned Monday operators and drivers of some public utility vehicles (PUVs) bearing stickers with the words ‘Slim Only’ on their front seats to remove them immediately or pay a hefty fine.

LTFRB made the warning following a number of passenger complaints on these stickers particular found in UV Express vans which were deemed discriminatory.

“It might seem funny for some passengers, but these stickers are discriminatory. There is no place for discrimination in public transport,” LTFRB board member Atty. Ariel Inton said.

Operators will be fined with PHP5,000 for the first time a vehicle is caught bearing the sticker, Php 10,000 for the second time and PHP15,000 for the third. The operator may also lose his certificate of public convenience (CPC).

Inton said that aside from these ‘slim only’ signs, some PUV drivers only allow women to take the front seat.

He noted that PUV drivers should not select passengers based on age, gender or physical appearance.

“We do not stop drivers from reserving seats for their girlfriends, wives or family members but drivers that select passengers based on age, gender or appearance is a violation of the anti-decimation act,” the LTFRB official said.

He also pointed out that refusing to convey a passenger was a violation under the JAO 2014-001 of the LTFRB and the Land Transportation Office (LTO).

Passengers were meanwhile urged to report and send photos of discriminatory stickers to the LTFRB through its 24/7 hotline number ‘1342’ or Viber at 0917-550-1342 for Globe and TM subscribers or 0998-550-1342 for Smart, Talk ‘n Text and Sun users. (PNA) BNB/ANP