'Oplan Isnabero' reactivated for the yuletide rush

BAYOMBONG, Philippines – This is one snobbish guy that the public will love. Mr. Isnabero, a program led by the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC), will be back on the streets to rescue the hapless public transport riding public who fall prey to Manila’s choosy taxi drivers. Oplan Isnabero has been reactivated Thursday by the DOTC in preparation for the coming holiday rush. According to chairman Thompson Lantion of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), the Land Transportation Office (LTO) will act as the lead agency to ensure that this year’s Oplan Isnabero will be successful. Previously launched during 2004’s Christmas season, Oplan Isnabero was established due to public clamor to apprehend drivers of public utility vehicles (PUV), who purposely ignore passengers that cannot afford to pay illegal and overpriced contracted rates. “Our Oplan Isnabero operatives will be stricter this time, and this should serve as warning already to abusive PUV drivers," said Lantion. Lantion disclosed that PUV drivers or franchise holders found guilty of choosing or overcharging commuters, will be fined P1,000 for the first offense and P3,000 for the second offense while sanctions ranging from suspension of their licenses and operations to possible revocation of their franchises will be meted to the erring driver or franchise holder on the third offense. DOTC is spearheading Oplan Isnabero in cooperation with LTO, LTFRB and the Philippine National Police. PNP will be setting up motorist assistance centers within Metro Manila and along the country’s major roads during the Christmas rush while Oplan Isnabero is expected to last until the first week of January. – Floro Taguinod, GMANews.TV