LTFRB: 90% of PUV operators consolidated

MANILA, Philippines — Nearly 90 percent of public utility vehicle (PUV) operators have consolidated under the Public Transport Modernization Program or PTMP, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board reported yesterday.

LTFRB Chairman Vigor Mendoza II said the agency is returning five-year franchises to consolidated transport groups.

“In fact, some transport groups have already consolidated. Once their consolidation is approved, their five-year franchise will be returned,” Mendoza said.

Unconsolidated PUV operators are still allowed to operate on certain routes under existing department orders while their consolidation is pending, the LTFRB said.

Based on the report of LTFRB regional offices, Mendoza said almost 90 percent of PUV operators have consolidated.

“The PTMP is ongoing. We are not backtracking. We are continuing the program,” he said.

Meanwhile, the LTFRB is also exploring GPS-based improvements to enhance service for commuters, by providing more accurate predictions of jeepney arrival and departure times.

“Modern jeepneys have GPS already. We can use GPS to predict travel times and adjust for traffic conditions,” Mendoza said.