MANILA – The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has summoned 34 public utility vehicle operators whose units were seen at rally sites in Quezon City.

In a statement, the LTFRB said it issued show-cause orders to operators of buses and UV Express units for allegedly failing to ply their authorized routes.

“While the LTFRB fully respects the right of every person to join protest action to air grievances, there are some factors that must also be taken into consideration, especially in the interest of the public,” the agency said.

The board said the operators’ failure to operate their units affected commuters who relied on their services.

Under the show-cause orders, operators who fail to deploy their public utility vehicles, resulting in reduced transport availability, may be held liable for violating Paragraph 3 of LTFRB Memorandum Circular No. 2011-004.

The 34 operators were directed to submit notarized explanations on why their permits should not be suspended or cancelled. A hearing has been scheduled for July 9.

On Tuesday, thousands of Iglesia ni Cristo members held a surprise political protest in Quezon City, causing heavy traffic, particularly along the northbound lane of EDSA.

The group continued its rally on Wednesday at Liwasang Bonifacio in support of Sen. Rodante Marcoleta, who is facing possible arrest for plunder over alleged undeclared campaign contributions.