PUV modernization to push through

MANILA - Malacañang was unfazed by the two-day transport strike launched by several groups to express their strong opposition to government’s public utility vehicles (PUV) modernization program.

Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said in a statement that the PUV modernization program needs to be implemented despite the several transport groups’ outcry, noting the administration has to improve the country’s “outdated public transport system.”

“The administration remains committed to the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program, which is long overdue,” Abella said.

“There were several attempts in the past to modernize the public transport system but these have been thwarted due to similar transport strikes, which unfortunately resulted in an outdated public transport system,” he added.

The PUV modernization program, which was officially launched by the Department of Transportation (DOTr) on June 19, seeks to phase out old and dilapidated jeepneys and replace them with environment-friendly and efficiently driven transport systems.

The new program was deemed a solution to address the worsening traffic situation in the country.

Transportation groups, however, rejected the program, saying it was “anti-poor” since 600,000 drivers and 200,000 operations were expected to be affected by the termination of operations of old jeepneys.

Pinagkaisang Samahan ng Tsuper at Opereytor Nationwide is holding a two-day strike beginning October 16, Monday, to contest the jeepney phase-out plan.

Abella said that while leftleaning Piston opposed the government’s plan to improve and strengthen the public road transport sector, several public transport groups have expressed their support. SunStar Philippines