Streets of Dissent: Philippine Transport Groups Unite Against PUV Consolidation Deadline

In “The Road to Resolution: Philippine Transport Groups’ Rally Against PUV Consolidation,” transport groups PISTON and MANIBELA in the Philippines have organized a rally in Manila City. This demonstration is in response to the government’s plan to consolidate public utility vehicle (PUV) operators, a deadline set for December 31st. The protest, which saw around 1,500 participants and 300 PUVs, voiced concerns over the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board’s (LTFRB) approach, including an incident where protesters threw paint at the LTFRB’s central office.

Despite the LTFRB’s decision to allow PUV operators to operate selected routes until January 2024, the groups remain steadfast in their opposition. PISTON national president Mody Floranda views this extended timeline as a strategy to further the government’s PUV modernization program. He sees it as a method for the LTFRB to pressure operators into complying with modernization requirements.

Renato Reyes Jr., president of BAYAN, warns that the consolidation deadline could lead to a mass transport crisis, citing that only about 35% of PUVs in the National Capital Region have consolidated. With nearly 34,000 vehicles yet to consolidate, the potential for a significant shortage of jeepneys and other public transportation looms large.

Amid these tensions, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) remains committed to the December 31st deadline, while the Supreme Court has asked the DOTr and LTFRB to comment on petitions challenging the PUV Modernization Program. These petitions include an urgent request for a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) against the program.

This article highlights the complex issues surrounding the government’s efforts to modernize the PUV system in the Philippines, balancing efficiency and modernization with the livelihoods and concerns of thousands of PUV operators and drivers.