LTFRB holds dry run of P2P double-decker bus service

The government on Thursday morning held a dry run for its point-to-point (P2P) double decker buses aimed at reducing traffic on EDSA as well as lines in train stations, Mark Salazar reported on "News To Go."

The move was part of the initiatives of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to encourage operators to upgrade their decrepit buses to double deckers.

By upgrading their buses, the LTFRB said operators would get more revenue as the new buses could carry more passengers.

Thursday's maiden trip held during morning rush hour — from North EDSA in Quezon City to Glorietta 5 in Makati City — took an hour and a half, according to Salazar.

While fares are slightly more expensive than in normal buses, commuters can expect amenities such as ergonomic reclining seats, foot rests, and luggage and bike compartments. At the VIP lounge, there's free wifi and a videoke machine.

A no-standing policy and a CCTV camera inside the bus also ensure a safe journey for passengers.

Trips for double decker buses start at 6 a.m. and end from 11:30 to 11:40 p.m., Salazar said. They will have the following routes:

Fairview - Makati
Fairview - Ortigas
Katipunan - Makati
Eastwood - Makati
Alabang - Makati
Alabang - Ortigas
North Edsa - Makati
North Edsa - Ortigas

Salazar said unlike in other bus lines, drivers of double decker buses have a fixed salary complete with SSS memberships. —Rie Takumi/KBK, GMA News