By Raymond Carl Dela Cruz

PASSENGERS AT PITX. Passengers line up for a security check outside the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange in this undated photo. Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon on Tuesday (April 15, 2025) ordered an investigation into four bus companies that use makeshift terminals in Pasay City instead, of the PITX, leaving waiting passengers without basic services such as seats and restrooms. (PNA file photo)

MANILA – Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon has warned four bus companies operating along EDSA in Malibay, Pasay for using illegal makeshift terminals that lack adequate facilities for passengers.

In a news release on Tuesday, Dizon said Philtranco, Mega Bus, Ten Ten, and RMB bus companies leave passengers in a “deplorable state” due to lack of chairs and comfort rooms, proper roofing, and electric fans.

He ordered the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to summon the bus companies and look into possible sanctions.

“Meron naman tayong Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX), bakit may ganito? Hindi naman terminal ito. Walang upuan, naka-tolda, walang CR Itong mga pasahero nagbabayad naman sila — regular fare. Hindi naman discounted ito. Hindi pwede ito (We already have the PITX, why do they still have these makeshift terminals? This is not a real terminal. There are no seats, no cover, or comfort rooms. And these passengers pay regular fares, not paying discounted fares. This is unacceptable),” Dizon said.

He said the DOTr will collaborate with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, Philippine National Police, LTFRB, and Land Transportation Office in cracking down on the bus companies.

“Talagang winawasak ‘yung dignidad ng mga kababayan natin kapag ganito (They ruin the dignity of our people in such conditions),” he said.

On Monday, Dizon visited the PITX and Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3, also in Pasay, as part of preparations for the expected influx of passengers for the long Holy Week break. (PNA)