The launch of the DOTr Commuter Hotline is off to a good start. On its official social media page, the agency proudly announced that it was able to address the first complaint lodged via the hotline within 24 hours of receiving it. An SMS was sent about alleged trip-cutting by jeepneys, and with the LTFRB’s help, it was quickly actioned upon.
DOTr Commuter Hotline responds to SMS complaint received on SM Bicutan, MIAA jeepneys cutting trips short
Photo: Department of Transportation
Launched just last week, the DOTr Commuter Hotline is a means for the general public to bring their complaints to the agency’s attention. The first was apparently sent via SMS and told on certain PUVs that were engaging in trip-cutting; that is the PUV not plying its entire route which forces commuters to alight and walk or take yet another ride the rest of the way to their destination.
Within 24 hours of receiving the complaint, agents of both the Department of Transportation and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) sprung into action which led to the apprehension of two traditional public utility jeep drivers in SM Bicutan, and drivers of five modern public utility jeep drivers in the MIAA area.
Photo: Department of Transportation
Alongside the apprehension, all the drivers involved were issued with violation tickets and were slapped with a PHP 5,000 fine each for their first offense in violation of the Joint Administrative Order (JAO) 2014-01 for the franchise of public utility vehicles (PUVs). The practice of trip-cutting results in added discomfort and expenses for the commuters, and their rights are supposed to be protected by any legal, franchise-holding PUV.
Photo: Department of Transportation
The DOTr Commuter Hotline can receive complaints and reports of concerns from Mondays through Fridays from 8:00 AM until 5:00 PM and can be reached at 0920-964-3687 (0920-964-DOTr). It serves as the Department’s central hotline for commuter concerns, grievances, and complaints, and despite the above-mentioned schedule, the public can rest assured that any messages received outside these times will still be actioned upon as soon as possible.
Major props for the quick response! Now this has just set the bar and the people are expecting no less moving forward. Can the DOTr and the agencies under its wing keep up? Let’s see. And hope so.
