
PHILIPPINE National Police chief Gen. Dionardo Carlos has ordered the monitoring of public utility vehicles in Cebu province amid the decision of the provincial government to allow full passenger capacity in all PUVs starting March 1.
Carlos said the move was to make sure that the minimum public health safety protocols will be observed to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
“This would mean that the PNP and other deputized enforcers will not apprehend drivers and conductors of PUVs with passengers at maximum capacity, but take note that there is a stress on observing the minimum public health standard such as wearing of face masks for passengers, drivers and conductors and regular disinfection of the PUV units,” the PNP chief explained.
“Nevertheless, police officers deployed in the streets for monitoring purposes are to continue fulfilling their mandate of managing possible gathering of people and reminding them of the health protocol,” the country’s top cop added.
According to Cebu Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia, they made the decision after consulting the concerned government agencies, including the PNP.
Garcia earlier clarified that trip tickets and Public Utility Vehicle pass will still be inspected.