New LTFRB-NIR chief eyes mobile office for public service

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — Newly appointed Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board – Negros Island Region (LTFRB-NIR) director lawyer Gerry Llena is planning to establish a mobile office to bring the agency’s services closer to the public.

Llena, who previously served as president of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) – Negros Occidental Chapter, took his oath as LTFRB-NIR director before Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin on Feb. 6.

“The oath was not ceremonial — it was a commitment,” he said, stressing that the appointment is an extension of his service to the people, and not a privilege or title.

“I’ve been thinking of developing a mobile office — one that truly represents the essence of the office itself and allows people to genuinely feel the services of the LTFRB,” Llena said in a media interview after a courtesy call to Mayor Greg Gasataya at the Bacolod City Government Center.

Llena said the LTFRB is a direct agency whose impact is not always immediately felt by citizens, and that a mobile office, if approved, would travel to cities and communities that need assistance the most — making government service visible, accessible, and personal.

He stressed that the mobile office will not merely be symbolic. “It will function, move, and go where it is needed,” he said.

“I am not someone who is satisfied with merely trying. I will really do my best to make it work,” Llena said, adding that if the essence of service is prioritized, the mobile LTFRB office will not only succeed — it will make a real difference.

Llena also vowed to look into the plight of drivers, operators, and all stakeholders. “I understand them because I was once a driver myself. I know their struggles. I feel them,” he said.

He said he will examine the economic realities of the sector and act accordingly, but noted there are things he will never compromise — particularly the comfort and safety of the riding public. “That is the first order of business,” he stressed.

“As a lawyer working within government policy, I pray there will be no conflicts in fulfilling my duties. We are bound by ethical standards as a lawyer,” he said.

The LTFRB-NIR office is based in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental, as provided by law.