Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 2) — A sticker campaign launched on Monday reminds public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers, conductors, operators, and commuters to prevent sexual harassment in public transportation.
The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) rolled out the program at the Paranaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX). LTFRB technical division chief Joel Bolano placed the stickers in a number of buses indicating contact numbers to report such cases, like the agency’s 24/7 hotline 1342.
“Ito ay paalala sa ating mga driver, konduktor, pasahero at kung ano pa ang dapat gawin… kapag naka experience ng pambabastos,” said Bolano.
[Translation: This is a reminder for drivers, conductors, passengers, and what they should do if they experience harrasment.]
Bolano said stiff penalties await violators of the ‘Bawal Bastos’ law or Safe Spaces Act. In case the driver or conductors is the offender, the fine is ₱5,000 as well as six-month franchise suspension.
In March, the agency released Memorandum Circular 2023-016 that directed all PUV operators, drivers, conductors, and their employees to make sure safe spaces are protected and free from from any form of sexual harassment.
“Sigurado ho tayo na ang confidentiality ng ating complainants ay mappreserve iniinvite natin ang mga pasahero na magsumbong,” Bolano added.
[Translation: Confidentiality of those who will file complaints will be preserved so we invite passengers to report.]
