By Dean Aubrey Caratiquet
The four-session consultation on the revised guidelines for the PUV Modernization Program (PUVMP) had been productive, the Land Transportation, Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) said.
In the Nov. 7 Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon program, LTFRB Technical Division Chief Joel Bolano said they were able to gather valuable feedback and suggestions from talks with various sectors which will aid in the assessment of the program’s existing policies.
“Sa konsultasyon na ito, kabilang sa mga napag-usapan yung pagbibigay ng ‘just and humane’ transition ng pag-implement ng ating program,” Bolano said.
“Kasama na rin po ang polisiya sa distance policy natin sa mga ruta, at yung pagpapalawig ng pagpalit ng mga luma papunta sa mga bagong units natin,” he added.
Earlier this year, Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista mandated the LTFRB to align the PUVMP policies with the interests of the transportation providers and drivers.
This is in response to allegations that the program’s policies are not favorable to drivers and operators.
Bolano said they also discussed the creation of a local public transportation plan and additional components for the route rationalization program.
The consultations were attended by national government agencies, partner local government units, civil groups, commuters, representatives from the private sector, PUV drivers, and operators.
“During the congressional hearing ng budget ng department ay maraming mambabatas ang sumuporta na maipatupad itong enhanced program natin sa PUV modernization,” Bolano said.
“In fact, ang DOTr ay may proposed budget na P1.6 billion. Para po ito sa implementasyon, kasama na po rito ang para sa mga equity subsidy, social support program, at doon po sa pagpapatakbo ng programa mismo kasama na yung route rationalization program,” he added.
As part of the new guidelines, the LTFRB will be conducting regular dialog with civil societies, private sector partners and concerned stakeholders to ensure smooth implementation of the enhanced PUVMP.
Bolano said the LTFRB’s offices are open for those who have clarifications regarding the PUVMP. –ag
