By JOEL C. ESCOL, Managing Editor
In a recent move, 22 out of 23 Philippine senators have signed Senate Resolution 1096, urging a temporary halt to the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP), now known as the Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP). Senator Risa Hontiveros is the only one who has not signed the resolution, and she has yet to provide an explanation for her decision.
The resolution calls for the suspension of the PTMP to address “valid and urgent concerns” raised by affected drivers, transport groups, unions, and cooperatives. The senators argue that these concerns highlight deficiencies in the program that need to be resolved to ensure a more efficient and inclusive implementation.
The PTMP, introduced in 2017, aims to replace outdated jeepneys with more environmentally friendly vehicles that meet Euro 4 emission standards. However, lawmakers have cited ongoing issues, including inadequate information dissemination by the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the financial burden of modernizing vehicles, which they believe exceed the capabilities of many drivers and operators.
One significant issue highlighted is the high number of un-consolidated public utility vehicle (PUV) units. As of April 30, the deadline for consolidation, approximately 36,217 units—around 19% of jeepneys and other PUVs—had not been consolidated. This figure is expected to rise as some drivers and operators continue to seek revocation of their cooperative memberships due to alleged mismanagement.
The senators also expressed concern over the potential phase-out of the traditional jeepney design in favor of newer, imported mini-buses. They argue that the transition could negatively impact drivers who rely solely on driving for their livelihood.
Further compounding the issue, only 11.05% of local government units have approved their Local Public Transport Route Planning (LPTRP) as of the consolidation deadline. However, both the LGUs and the DOTr have until 2026 to fully comply with these plans.
Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero, who proposed the resolution, believes that a suspension of the PTMP is necessary until all concerns, particularly those related to its financial implications, are addressed. He suggested that President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. could follow this recommendation, similar to his agreement on banning Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO).
The PTMP was designed to modernize the transport sector by ensuring that vehicles meet stringent environmental standards and by promoting the formation of transport cooperatives. However, the senators argue that without resolving the current issues, the program could undermine its own goals and impact those it seeks to help.
