DOTr urged to name new officials to lead PUV modernization program
File photo by Niño Jesus Orbeta | Philippine Daily Inquirer
MANILA, Philippines — Transport groups in support of the Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP) called on Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon to appoint new officials to lead the program.
Pasang Masda national president Roberto “Ka Obet” Martin, Altodap national president Melencio “Boy” Vargas, and Acto national president Liberty de Luna sent a letter dated March 26 to to Dizon amid reignited calls to suspend the implementation of the PTMP.
READ: Transport groups split over modernization
“Secretary, the problem with the PTMP is how to operate and implement it correctly and efficiently. Because of this, our final request is that you appoint new officials who will lead the PTMP so that it can move forward quickly,” the three groups said in Filipino in the letter.
“We hope that the individual you choose is already experienced with the program, understands the challenges in its implementation, and knows the appropriate solutions. We also hope this leader is well-known and respected in the transportation sector,” they added.
The three groups also suggested to Dizon to move the PTMP forward, initially by ensuring that the modernization program would be implemented in financially viable routes.
Financial viability should be determined through open and transparent proceedings, wherein operators will petition themselves to become modernized routes.
These operators will submit evidence proving their viability, with opposing operators also given the chance to present their side.
“Summary proceeding ang susundan para matapos ang hearing at makapagdesisyon sa loob ng hindi lalagpas ng 3 buwan,” the three groups suggested.
“A summary proceeding will be followed to ensure that the hearing is completed and a decision is made within no more than three months,” the groups suggested.
Meanwhile, once a route has been declared modernized, the groups suggested that all jeepneys in the route must modernize within 12 months or else they would no longer be allowed to operate.
Should there be an excess of jeepneys, they will be removed on a “last in, first out” basis, redirecting them on other routes that still have openings.
The groups also asked the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to designate a committee composed of the department and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board representatives to decide on the petitions—which will still be appealable to the secretary.
