A lawmaker today denounced the collection of fees from passengers for the use of comfort rooms and service facilities in bus terminals/bus stations, bus stops and rest areas, a press release from Congress said.

Rep. Maximo Dalog (Lone District, Mountain Province) urged owners of bus terminals and rest areas to put a stop to this practice immediately.

"The safety and comfort of passengers is of prime importance thus construction of sanitary comfort rooms and service facilities for passengers is a must in every bus terminal/bus station, bus stop and rest area," Dalog said.

He said the use of these comfort rooms and service facilities is part of the services for human care of common carriers.

In filing House Bill 6034, Dalog cited Article 1755 of the New Civil Code of the Philippines which states that a common carrier is bound to carry the passengers safely as far as human care and foresight can provide, using the utmost diligence of very cautious persons, with due regard for all the circumstances.

Dalog also cited Presidential Decree No. 522 which states as one of its basis, the need of providing for an adequate number of rest areas for passengers of public and private conveyances plying the highways to cater to the comfort and personal convenience and needs of travelers.

Under the measure, it is prohibited for bus companies, bus operators and owners of bus terminals/bus stations, bus stops and rest areas to collect fees from passengers for the use of their comfort rooms and service facilities in their premises, the press release said.

The bill penalizes violators with six months imprisonment or a fine of P10,000.

"Considering the beneficial effects to the riding public who patronize these common carriers, approval of this bill is earnestly sought," Dalog said.*

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