Manila, Philippines – Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez has ordered the cancellation of Elavil Bus Company’s franchise after it was caught operating from an illegal terminal in Pasay City, despite a previous cease and desist order issued by former DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon.
During a surprise inspection early Tuesday morning, Secretary Lopez personally discovered Elavil buses operating from a vacant lot that lacked permits and proper passenger facilities. He immediately ordered the revocation of the company’s franchise.
In addition, Lopez ordered the impoundment of three Elavil buses found at the illegal site and directed the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to issue a show cause order against the operator of the bus company.
The Secretary also encountered several passengers already aboard the buses. He instructed Elavil personnel to refund their fares and assist them in transferring to authorized terminals to ensure their safe travel to their respective provinces.
Elavil was not the only company inspected during the surprise visits. Secretary Lopez also visited the terminals of JVH Transport and JRV Pamar Line Inc., where he noted the absence of all-gender restrooms. At Baclaran Metrolink Bus Corp., he flagged poor ventilation, the lack of resting areas for drivers, and the absence of posted fare matrices. He also ordered improvements to the terminal’s lactation room, emphasizing the importance of ensuring privacy for nursing mothers.
Later in the day, Lopez conducted an inspection at the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX), where he received complaints about inadequate air conditioning. The PITX management has committed to addressing the issue promptly.
The Department of Transportation reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety, comfort, and dignity of passengers through strict enforcement of transport regulations and regular inspections of terminals and operators.