15 new taxi units arrive in Ilocos Norte

LAOAG CITY, July 21, 2019 – The operation of 15 brand-new metered taxi units which arrived in Ilocos Norte last July 16 is expected to provide daily commuters a convenient and comfortable ride, officials said.

Officials of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) in Region 1 presented to the public the 15 cabs during the modern public utility vehicle (PUV) caravan held at the Robinsons Ilocos mall in San Nicolas town.

The caravan aims to feature the modern PUVs in support to the flagship program of the Duterte administration — the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program.

According to LTFRB Regional Director Nasrudin Talipasan, the flag down rate is poised at P40, which is similar to Metro Manila rate.

“Since July 1, we have started launching the modern PUV caravan in various regions,” Talipasan said.

For those who would like to apply for additional taxi franchise, application is on a first-come-first-served basis.

“Whoever comes first with complete requirements will be given franchise,” the regional director emphasized.

Further, he said the initial approval of the 15 taxi units may be given more as the demand increases.

He encourages stakeholders in the province to support and adapt to the modernization programs on public utilities for the improvement of the transport system in the country.

“This is more convenient for us, especially those who are working on a night-shift. We will feel much safer,” Ian Renzy Marcelo, a daily commuter, said. (Ma. Joreina Therese A. Blanco/PIA 1-Ilocos Norte)