Strict implementation of anti-Sardinas rules observed in Mandaue City
In the City of Mandaue, a new policy is being enforced to ensure the safety and comfort of commuters. Known as the "Anti-Sardinas" policy, it aims to prevent extreme overcrowding in public transport by limiting the number of standing passengers in public utility jeepneys (PUJs) to 10.
The term "Anti-Sardinas" is derived from the image of passengers packed tightly like sardines in a can. This policy is part of the broader effort by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to regulate passenger load limits in PUJs.
The Traffic Enforcement Agency of Mandaue (Team) is enforcing the policy, with deputized enforcers authorized by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) to issue Temporary Operator's Permits (TOPs) and apprehend violators. Violations of the "Anti-Sardinas" policy will result in the issuance of a TOP, with fines ranging from ₱1,000 to ₱5,000 depending on the severity and recurrence of the offense. Repeated violations can lead to suspension or revocation of the driver's franchise.
The "Anti-Sardinas" policy is meant to encourage discipline among drivers and operators, reduce the risk of accidents and heat-related health issues, especially during rush hour, and ensure safer and more efficient transport systems nationwide.
Commuters are urged to report overloaded vehicles to the authorities through Team's official Facebook page. The City of Mandaue is intensifying checks on PUJs plying major routes, and the policy will be implemented regardless of whether neighboring local government units are enforcing the same.
This enforcement aligns with national LTFRB directives, supported independently even if neighboring areas have different enforcement levels. The policy is part of measures by local traffic authorities and the LTFRB to prevent overloading, improve commuter safety, and ensure comfort.
In summary:
- Penalty: Issuance of Temporary Operator's Permit (TOP) with fines from ₱1,000 to ₱5,000.
- Further consequences: Suspension or revocation of franchise for multiple offenses.
- Passenger limit: Only 10 standing passengers allowed.
- Enforcement: Daily inspections by deputized enforcers in Mandaue.
[1] Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) [2] Traffic Enforcement Agency of Mandaue (Team)
- The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) is part of a national effort to regulate the passenger load limits in public utility jeepneys (PUJs) as part of the broader "Anti-Sardinas" policy.
- Financially, violators of the "Anti-Sardinas" policy in the City of Mandaue may face fines ranging from ₱1,000 to ₱5,000, depending on the severity and recurrence of the offense.
- As part of the "Anti-Sardinas" policy, the Traffic Enforcement Agency of Mandaue (Team) is dedicating resources to ensure public-transit safety and efficiency, aiming to improve transportation infrastructure and foster a healthier commuting experience for everyone.
