Modernization of Public Transportation Continues Amidst Protests

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has announced its steadfast commitment to advancing the next stages of the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP), undeterred by planned protests from various transport groups. Initiated in 2017, the PUVMP is a comprehensive 10-phase endeavor aiming to overhaul the public transportation system in the Philippines.

LTFRB chairman Teofilo Guadiz III emphasized that the consolidation phase of the program has concluded, marking a pivotal step towards the next phase, operationalization. The primary goal is to streamline the public transport system by encouraging the formation of operator associations, leading to a more organized and efficient service.

In response to the resistance from certain transport groups, Guadiz clarified that the government is prepared with contingency plans, including deploying rescue buses and jeepneys in areas affected by the non-consolidation of PUV operators. This measure aims to minimize the impact on commuters.

The protest against the PUVMP is being spearheaded by MANIBELA, a transport group seeking to overturn the revocation of franchises for operators who did not comply with the consolidation requirement. Mar Valbuena, chairman of MANIBELA, expressed dissatisfaction with the LTFRB’s decision, deeming it unfair and against legal provisions. The group is lobbying for a congressional hearing, hoping to extend the franchise validity for those affected operators.

Despite these challenges, the LTFRB remains resolved in its pursuit of the modernization program, prioritizing the improvement of the public transportation system in the Philippines. The Office of Transportation Cooperatives has appealed to non-consolidated PUV operators to cease operations starting February 1 to avoid conflicts and ensure a smooth transition into the modernized system.