LTFRB firm on PUV modernization consolidation deadline

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.

- ROMINA CABRERA

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.