The Southern Star Bus Transit Inc. is expected to relaunch its Panglao trips after the Department of Transportation (DOTr) yesterday gave the go-signal to lift the moratorium on new franchises for public utility vehicles (PUV).

According to Panglao transportation consultant Danny Reyes, Southern Star can move to resume its Panglao route when the measure would be fully implemented nationwide.

The recent development is expected to allow the bus firm to secure a franchise for its Panglao trips, which it purportedly does not possess.

Panglao which has been seen to lack adequate public transportation is also open to accept the entry of other bus companies into the town as stipulated in an ordinance passed by the municipal government.

According to Reyes, the Panglao LGU will allow the entry of new public transportation groups as long as they secure the necessary documents.

Efforts to improve public transportation in the town have been prompted by the nearing completion of the New Bohol Airport in Panglao which is projected to require more transport means.

Reyes admitted that the town currently is in shortage of trips for its commuters.

This has been manifested particularly during the resumption of classes this month while the lack of PUVs have also been a problem for Panglao residents who work in Tagbilaran City, he said.

Last year, Southern Star launched its Panglao route but this was suspended a few weeks after as it was met by opposition from local transport groups which sought to block the firm’s entry into the town.

The bus line’s Panglao trips were eventually halted due to lack of a franchise and other documents. (Allen Doydora)