Everyone wants to be a content creator these days. If something can earn views, chances are someone is already filming it. That even includes some public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers, who record videos or livestream themselves while working in hopes of gaining followers and earning extra income online.

But, as far as the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) is concerned, creating content while on duty is prohibited and may soon cost PUV drivers PHP 5,000, as well as the revocation of their franchise.

LTFRB Chairman Vigor Mendoza II recently signed Memorandum Circular No. 2026-050, which strictly prohibits PUV drivers from vlogging, livestreaming, or engaging with social media while operating their vehicles.

“We call on both the operators and drivers to be mindful of this law not only for the safety of all the people on board the PUV but also to all the other road users,” said Mendoza.

PUV drivers refer to anyone who operates a public utility vehicle, including jeepney, bus, UV Express, taxi, TNVS, and motorcycle taxi drivers, as well as other drivers who transport paying passengers under a public transport franchise.

The memorandum circular comes after the LTFRB observed a growing number of PUV drivers producing online content while behind the wheel. Mendoza reminded drivers that even a split second of distraction can lead to a serious or even fatal road crash, adding that passenger safety should always take priority.

According to the LTFRB, filming videos, livestreaming, and interacting with social media while driving are all considered forms of distracted driving that violate Republic Act No. 10913, or the Anti-Distracted Driving Act. The agency said these activities put passengers, pedestrians, and other motorists at risk and also go against the conditions of every Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC), a.k.a. franchise, which requires operators and drivers to provide safe and reliable public transport service.

The LTFRB also reminded operators to ensure their drivers refrain from creating content or engaging with social media while on duty. The prohibition covers activities such as browsing, scrolling, liking, commenting, posting, livestreaming, and other forms of interaction with social media applications.

The LTFRB said it is finalizing the memorandum circular and will announce its implementation after completing the required publication and other legal procedures.