MODERNIZATION PROGRAM. A jeepney terminal at SM City North Edsa on Thursday (Dec. 28, 2023). Under the PUV modernization program, consolidated units will continue to operate on their existing routes. (PNA photo by Joey O. Razon)
MANILA – Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista has expressed support to operators and drivers who have consolidated under the government's Public Utility Vehicle modernization program.
Jeepney operators and drivers have only until Dec. 31 this year to consolidate into a cooperative or a corporation, the first step of the modernization program.
"The PUV consolidation stays. This initiative has gained the support of majority of our PUV operators as around 70 percent of them have already taken part in the consolidation process," Bautista said in a statement Thursday.
With only three days left, the operators are drivers are urged to comply with the requirements.
According to the Land Transportation Franchising Regulatory Board, the documents for submission are:
● Latest Land Transportation Office Official Receipt and Certificate of Registration (OR/CR)
● For Corporation: Securities and Exchange Commission Certificate of Registration/Certification
For Cooperative: Cooperative Development Authority Registration/OTC Certification
● Affidavit of Conformity stating that an individual operator is allowing his franchise and unit to be included in a cooperative or corporation
The Dec. 31 deadline is only for consolidation and not yet for the modernization of PUV units.
Those who will consolidate can still use their jeepney units as long as they pass the roadworthiness tests, according to the DOTr.
"Rest assured that your government is committed to making this program work as this aligns with goal of the Marcos administration on easing the plight of commuters by ensuring cleaner and safer means of public transportation for the riding public," Bautista said.
Several transport groups such as Piston and Manibela have opposed the program, citing problems such as high membership fees, cooperative mismanagement, among others.
This prompted them to hold transport strikes over the past months. (PNA)
