Bus drivers from different companies protested at the Land Transportation Office (LTO) in Quezon City last December 18 demanding to scrap the agency’s unjust Demerit Points System that was implemented as early as 2019. The action was led by Manibela or the Malayang Alyansa ng Bus Employees at Laborers.

The system, a part of Republic Act 10930, imposed double “demerit points” for drivers of public vehicles compared to private vehicles. In line with this, when a driver gets 40 “demerit points” due to “violations” of traffic laws, his license will be revoked for two years.

Thousands of bus drivers and workers are being pressured and are in danger of losing their livelihood as a result. It has intensified in recent months as local governments and the coast guard have colluded in enforcing the policy. They insist that drivers “violate” traffic rules because of the chaotic transportation system. Designated loading and unloading areas of passengers have not been implemented.