As Holy Week and the summer break approach, many Filipinos are planning vacations. In the recent episode of ‘CIA with BA,’ viewers sent in questions about their rights and responsibilities during this time of rest and travel.
The first question came from Ross of Manila: “Pupunta po kami sa beach ng mga kaibigan ko. Since lahat kami ay mga estudyante at may student ID naman, pwede po ba naming gamitin ang student fare discount ngayong summer sa pagbili ng bus tickets?”
According to Atty. Matt Cesa, the discount is still valid: “Under sa memorandum ng LTFRB, pati na rin ‘yung recent law natin on student discount, ang nakalagay kasi, entitled ka dito sa discount na ‘to mula Monday to Sunday, kahit holiday, sembreak, o summer break.”
He added that post-graduate students such as those taking up law, medicine, or master’s and doctoral degrees are not covered by the discount.
Next, Daniel from Quezon City asked whether he could use his service incentive leave (SIL) to extend his family vacation, as his regular vacation leave wasn’t enough. “Pwede ko po bang gamitin ang service incentive leave para tuluy-tuloy at hindi mabitin ang aking bakasyon?”
Atty. Rafael Rivera responded, “Pwede, basta nabigyan ka na ng employer mo ng service incentive leave. Ang batas, hindi nagsasaad ng partikular na dahilan para gamitin ito. As long as paalam ka sa employer, puwede mo siyang gamitin.”
Meanwhile, Edgar from Baler, Aurora, a first-time traveler abroad, had a concern: “Ano po ang aking gagawin sakaling mawala ang aking passport?”
Atty. Bernadette Maybituin advised not to panic and follow the proper legal steps:
- Report the loss to the nearest police station.
- Prepare an affidavit of loss.
- Proceed to the nearest Philippine embassy or consulate to apply for a new passport, an emergency passport, or a travel certificate.
Through the segment “Tanong ng Pilipino,” ‘CIA with BA’ continues to educate viewers on their legal rights during vacation periods. Whether traveling or resting, it’s important to be informed and prepared.
‘CIA with BA’ continues the legacy of the late Senator Rene Cayetano and airs every Sunday at 11:00 p.m. on GMA7, with replays on GTV the following Saturday at 10:30 p.m.
