LTFRB bans vlogging for PUV drivers
The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has issued a stern warning to drivers of public utility vehicles (PUVs) against vlogging while operating their vehicles. Chairman Vigor Mendoza II emphasized, “If you vlog, don’t drive.” The directive is formalized in LTFRB Memorandum Circular 2026-050, which prohibits PUV drivers from vlogging, livestreaming, or interacting with social media while on duty.
Legal basis and penalties
The memorandum reinforces Republic Act 10913, or the Anti-Distracted Driving Act, which already bans activities like using electronic gaming devices, watching videos, surfing the internet, composing messages, or reading e-books while driving. Violators face a penalty of P5,000 for the first offense. Subsequent offenses may lead to suspension and eventual revocation of the driver’s license. PUV operators who fail to remind drivers of the rule may also be penalized.
Safety concerns and enforcement
Mendoza, known for his strict enforcement, previously served as LTO assistant secretary where he penalized drivers for reckless road stunts and viral road rage incidents. As LTFRB chairman, he has prevented franchise renewals for unsafe PUVs and issued show-cause orders to bus operators and terminals over safety violations. The ban aims to prevent accidents caused by distracted driving, which endangers drivers, passengers, and other road users.
Criticism and clarification
Some PUV drivers have complained that the directive violates freedom of expression. However, the LTFRB clarifies that the memorandum does not ban vlogging entirely—only while driving. Drivers may still vlog off-duty. LTFRB franchise conditions also impose heavy penalties for operators whose PUVs are involved in accidents due to human errors like distracted driving, including franchise cancellation for repeated violations.
Support for the campaign
Many support Mendoza’s campaign to eliminate risky driving behavior. PUV drivers are urged to take their jobs seriously, as their work directly affects human lives and requires constant risk management. The message is clear: vlog when not driving, or face consequences.
