Group warns of PUV fare hike

CLARK FREEPORT, Pampanga, Philippines — The Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Operator na Tutol sa Phase-out (STOP) warned yesterday that the government’s public utility modernization program would eliminate all current means of public transport.

“If this so-called modernization is implemented, it will mean junking all public utility vehicles like buses, UVs, taxis and jeepneys even if these have already passed the Motor Vehicle Inspection System and Road Worthiness Tests,” said Dan Yumul, STOP spokesperson.

He added that compelling jeepney drivers to buy units costing millions would likely lead to a fare hike of P25.

“Junking the old units will put in jeopardy the livelihood of millions who depend on the transportation sector – from the drivers and operators, their families and related businesses,” Yumul stressed.

STOP maintained that the Department of Transportation directive “translates into a phaseout of existing units since it will cancel out the vehicle registration of engines with 15-year-old engines.”

It added that many Filipino overseas workers invest in the current mode of public transport just so they could find a means of income, high enough for them to stay with their families in the country.

“Now the government wants us to let them go, and quickly, compel us to buy a new unit that can cost more than a million pesos,” Yumul lamented.