THE Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) on Tuesday warned public utility vehicle operators and drivers, including taxis, trike and ride-hailing apps drivers, to abide by the 20-percent student fare discount under pain of penalties.
The board issued the warning in light of the opening of classes in mid-June.
“We are reminding all drivers and operators that the 20-percent student fare discount is not optional. It is a right enshrined in law, and violations will be met with strict penalties,” LTFRB chairman Teofilo Guadiz III stressed.
He said Republic Act No. 11314 or the Student Fare Discount Act of 2919 applies to all land transport modes — jeepneys, buses, UV Express, taxis, tricycles and transport network vehicle service (TNVS) units — regardless of the mode of payment.
Guadiz maintained that the mandate “is clear and is anchored on law punishable by penalties, revocation, or suspension of franchises.”
He clarified that the student fare discount applies exclusively to those currently enrolled in basic education (elementary to senior high school), including technical-vocational institutions, and college or undergraduate university programs.
“However, it does not extend to post-graduate students or individuals enrolled in short-term non-degree programs,” he explained.
Guadiz urged the public to stay vigilant and proactive in reporting violations of the 20-percent rule.
LTFRB is coordinating with the local government units, schools, and transport cooperatives to ensure that all affected sectors are well-informed, he said.
