Two PUV terminals in QC malls flagged over substandard facilities

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) issued show cause orders to the operators of two public utility vehicle (PUV) terminals in Quezon City on Thursday, February 19, 2026. The terminals are located within Ayala Malls Cloverleaf along Andres Bonifacio Avenue and Ayala Malls TriNoma on North Avenue.

Concerns Over Commuter Facilities

LTFRB Chairperson Atty. Vigor Mendoza II stated that both terminals were cited for deficiencies in facilities designed to ensure the safety and comfort of daily commuters. Mendoza emphasized the need for immediate improvements, stating, “It’s either you step up and fix what needs to be fixed to ensure compliance, or face the consequences for taking for granted the passengers whom you are supposed to serve well.”

Social Media Spotlighted Issues

The LTFRB’s action followed a passenger’s social media post on February 17, 2026, detailing a negative experience at the Cloverleaf terminal. The post included a nearly two-minute video showing dozens of passengers standing while waiting for a bus to Bulacan.

Did You Know? A passenger’s social media post on February 17, 2026, directly prompted the LTFRB’s investigation and subsequent show cause orders.

The passenger described a frustrating situation, noting the long wait times – over two hours standing – after a full day of work and travel just to reach the terminal. They also reported that arriving buses were often already full, leaving commuters to either crowd onto vehicles or endure further delays.

Findings of the LTFRB Inspection

An inspection of the Cloverleaf terminal confirmed the concerns raised online. The LTFRB found a lack of roofing and benches for waiting passengers. The agency noted that proper dispatching guidelines were not being followed and that adequate information and assistance counters were not in place.

Similar deficiencies were identified at the TriNoma terminal, specifically the absence of designated priority lanes for senior citizens and persons with disabilities.

Expert Insight: The LTFRB’s response highlights the increasing importance of passenger feedback in regulatory oversight. The swift action taken following a social media post suggests a willingness to address commuter concerns directly and hold terminal operators accountable for providing adequate facilities.

What’s Next?

Terminal operators have been directed to submit written explanations as to why their facilities should not be shut down. They are also required to attend a hearing scheduled for March 18. The LTFRB could impose sanctions, including temporary or permanent closure, if the operators fail to demonstrate sufficient improvements. Alternatively, the agency may allow the terminals to remain open with a plan for remediation. A further inspection could be conducted to verify compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the affected terminals located?

The terminals are located within Ayala Malls Cloverleaf along Andres Bonifacio Avenue and Ayala Malls TriNoma on North Avenue in Quezon City.

What specific issues were identified at the terminals?

Both terminals were found to lack facilities necessary for commuter safety and comfort. Specifically, Cloverleaf lacked roofing and benches, while TriNoma lacked priority lanes for senior citizens and persons with disabilities.

What is the next step in this process?

Terminal operators must submit written explanations and appear at a hearing on March 18 to address the show cause orders.

As public transportation hubs evolve, how can technology and infrastructure work together to create more comfortable and efficient experiences for all commuters?