LTFRB pushes cashless transactions to avoid spread of COVID-19

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) is pushing for cashless transactions in areas under general community quarantine (GCQ) in order to prevent the spread of 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) through money.

LTFRB chairman Martin Delgra said they are encouraging operators of taxis, transport network vehicles (TNVs), buses and modern jeepneys to go cashless to protect both passengers and drivers from COVID-19.

Delgra added that cashless transaction will not only prevent transmission of the coronavirus, but will also promote social or physical distancing.

“This is not new because we’ve been pushing this even before the pandemic. We are pushing for cashless transactions as part of the modernization program for public transport. We just saw the need to implement it now because of the pandemic,” he said.

The LTFRB has already allowed the partial operations of TNVs, taxis, buses and modernized jeepneys in GCQ areas to provide mass transport system for those who are allowed to work.

Delgra also appealed to the public to avoid going out of their houses for non-essential trips if they wish to avoid getting infected.

He said it is still not safe to go outside because of COVID-19.