DOTr clarifies PUVMP guidelines

MANILA: The Department of Transportation (DOTr) called for the clarification of inaccurate information about the government’s Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP).

Per the agency, misinformation and conflicting figures are deliberately spread by different groups and individuals to sow fear among the drivers, operators, and the riding public against the PUVMP to mislead the public about the initiative.

“Many of the figures used against the PUV Modernization Program are evidently intended to misinform, incite anxiety, and create confusion,” the country’s transportation bureau wrote in a statement.

“Not being able to form or join a cooperative or corporation does not lead to loss of jobs,” it explained.

DOTr also clarified that it has certified 54 PUV models that are compliant with the provisions of the Philippine National Standards of the Department of Trade and Industry. These modern PUVs, according to the bureau, are adopted into technical regulation by the LTFRB. These models are classified as Classes 1, 2, and 3 and are available in the market, depending on the unit’s size, features, and price range.

“Cooperatives are free to choose which type they prefer and can afford,” the agency stated.

“Local manufacturers have announced inexpensive models costing far below P2 million. No government agency or official is forcing any cooperative or transport group to buy the most expensive model,” it added.

In addition, DOTr pointed out that equity subsidy for cooperatives has been “substantially increased” to assist them in procuring modern units, adding that the burden of paying these units will be shouldered by the cooperative and not the individual PUV drivers.

“Paying the bank loans used to acquire the modern PUVs will be the obligation of the cooperative, not by individual drivers who are members of the cooperative,” the agency wrote.

Likewise, DOTr ruled out a fare increase once all PUVs have been modernized as loan payments will not determine the fare adjustment as the country’s economy and affordability of commuters are the primary consideration.

“Welfare of passengers and commuters was the prime goal of the program,” the DOTr said.

Earlier, Akbayan — a democratic socialist and progressive political party — appealed for the extension of the deadline for the consolidation of PUVMP stating that only 40 percent of the jeepneys in the National Capital Region joined the said move for unification.

“We urge the government to further enhance government subsidies to ease the financial burden on operators and owners upgrading to modern jeepneys. While recognizing the benefits of modernization, rushing the phase-out of traditional PUVs (public utility vehicles) risks disproportionately affecting vulnerable communities,” explained Akbayan Party President Rafaela David.

Akbayan also cited in a statement that the current government subsidy for operators who will upgrade to more modern units stands at P180,000. Nevertheless, it said that there are proposals to increase the said subsidy to P210,000.

“The road to improved public transport must not burden those unable to afford the high costs of upgrading. Our call is clear: prioritize the welfare of passengers, owners, operators, and drivers through stratified solutions, working with local companies to reduce production costs,” David added.

In addition, Akbayan also called for the exploration of innovative financing, including government-owned units with deferred payments by drivers.

“While we welcome the advantages of a modernized transportation system, we cannot overlook the reality that many citizens depend on traditional PUVs. Modernity must not be synonymous with increased inequality. We must ensure that the benefits of progress are accessible to all, without marginalizing any segment of our society,” noted the Akbayan President.

Photos from Department of Transportation - Philippines and Akbayan Partylist Facebook pages

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