LTFRB firm on PUV modernization consolidation deadline

MANILA, Philippines — The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) is firm on the deadline for the consolidation requirement of the government’s public utility vehicle modernization plan (PUVMP), expressing confidence the program will push through despite opposition from transport workers.

LTFRB Chairperson Teofilo Guadiz noted that around 60 percent of jeepneys nationwide have already met the consolidation requirement, and 70 percent of the total number of PUVs.

“These are data from October, I’m sure it already increased. The degree of acceptance has risen. We are confident that the modernization will push through,” he said.

He also allayed concerns that the PUVMP will lead to a phaseout of traditional jeepneys and said that they are allowed to ply their routes, as long as they meet the consolidation requirement and are deemed roadworthy by the Land Transportation Office.

He noted that they have already simplified the requirements for operators to organize into a cooperative as required by the PUVMP.

Transport groups have long been opposing the PUVMP, particularly the consolidation requirement which they say may result in the monopoly of public transportation.

Ready for transport strike

Authorities are all prepared to respond to the planned three-day transport strike next week that protests the government’s public utility vehicle modernization plan, the LTFRB said yesterday.

“Our preparations are complete and we are prepared for all eventualities in the event that the planned strike commences on Monday,” Guadiz said in mixed English and Filipino during a briefing.

Guadiz said they have coordinated with the Philippine National Police and local government units (LGUs) to ensure peace and order, even with the transport strike.

He added that they are also deploying emergency transport options for routes that could be affected by the strike to be staged by the Pagkakaisa ng mga Samahan ng Tsuper at Operator Nationwide (Piston) from Nov. 20-22.

He noted that there is no need to suspend classes or work over the planned transport holiday.

“I cannot recommend the suspension of classes or work because based on our last experience with the strike, given the same scenario, there was no impact and the work of both private and public sectors, as well as classes should continue,” he said in Filipino.

Guadiz said that around 8 to 12 routes in Metro Manila could be affected by the strike, but they have already coordinated with concerned LGUs. He said that the transport holiday will be close to zero in provinces.

Still, Guadiz said he is optimistic that they will reach a compromise with transport leaders before the planned strike.

Over 100,000 transport workers and units could join the strike on Monday, according to Piston.