Senator Francis Tolentino on Saturday reiterated his call to the government to retain the iconic jeepney design amid the implementation of the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program in the country.

In a radio interview, Tolentino underscored that the Department of Transportation should consider endorsing the design of a Filipino jeepney that would cater to the country’s rich historical background, culture, and pride. 

“You did not endorse any design but if you will endorse, choose the iconic jeepney design that’s part of our history, culture, and tradition,” Tolentino told DoTr Chairperson for Transportation Cooperatives, Andy Ortega.

“All of this is part of history, and then all of a sudden we will replace it with a flat nose, square-like design like a refrigerator with wheels),” he added. 

Ortega, in response, said they will encourage cooperatives to operate modern jeepneys without ditching the iconic Filipino design. 

“We are confident that the better-looking, ika nga iyong “iconic design” will now be in our street,” he said.

But for now, Ortega said the DOTr is “more focused” on maintaining the standards in safety and environment-friendliness of the modernized vehicles. 

Further, Tolentino urged Ortega to negotiate with the leaders of those operators who oppose the PUV modernization, citing that more than 30,000 public utility jeepneys will be affected by the new policy. 

“Please talk to those who are opposing the modernization before the implementation on February 1 and tell them about your position,” the senator said. 

Ortega noted that the DoTr is open to such talks and has been proactive in the information drive for drivers and operators even before the consolidation deadline set last 31 December 2023.

Based on the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board records, only 21,655 out of 42,177 units, or 51 percent met the consolidation deadline—leaving 20,522 units still unconsolidated.