Quezon city: The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has summoned 34 operators of public utility vehicles (PUVs) whose units were observed at rally sites in Quezon City on Tuesday. The LTFRB issued show-cause orders (SCOs) to these operators, which include bus and UV Express units, for not adhering to their authorized routes.

According to Philippines News Agency, the LTFRB emphasized the importance of balancing the right to protest with public interest. The agency expressed that while it respects the right of individuals to participate in protest actions, these activities should not interfere with public transportation services. The absence of these PUVs from their designated routes disrupted commuters who rely on them daily.

The LTFRB highlighted that operators who fail to operate their vehicles as required, thereby affecting public transport availability, are in violation of Paragraph 3 of LTFRB Memorandum Circular No. 2011-004. In response, the 34 operators have been instructed to provide notarized explanations as to why their permits should not face suspension or cancellation. A hearing on this matter is scheduled for July 9.

The rallies, which occurred on Tuesday, involved thousands of Iglesia ni Cristo members and led to significant traffic congestion, particularly along the northbound lane of EDSA. The demonstrations continued on Wednesday at Liwasang Bonifacio, voicing support for Sen. Rodante Marcoleta, who is currently facing potential legal action for alleged undeclared campaign contributions.