ABMAP’s gap

The Automotive Body Manufacturers Association of the Philippines (ABMAP) is pushing for the full rollout of the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PTMP), seeing it as a crucial step in cleaning up the country’s air and improving public transportation. The group believes that replacing outdated, smoke-belching jeepneys with modern, eco-friendly vehicles is one of the most effective ways to comply with the Clean Air Act (RA 8749).

“The Clean Air Act mandates the reduction of harmful emissions, and modernizing our public transport system is one of the most effective ways to comply with this law,” Edgar Manuel, executive director of ABMAP, said. “Outdated and inefficient vehicles contribute significantly to air pollution. Through the PTMP, we have the opportunity to replace them with cleaner, safer, and more efficient modern PUVs.”

As a representative body of local vehicle manufacturers and transport stakeholders, ABMAP emphasizes the urgency of transitioning to modern PUVs that meet Euro 5 emissions standards or run on electric power. These vehicles are designed to be more fuel-efficient, produce fewer emissions, and offer better safety and comfort for passengers.

The Clean Air Act, passed in 1999, set strict emissions regulations to protect both public health and the environment. However, enforcing these rules has been difficult with thousands of aging diesel-powered jeepneys still on the road. The PTMP provides a structured approach to phasing out these old vehicles and replacing them with more environmentally responsible options.

“We fully support the government’s drive to implement the PTMP because it not only helps us meet our environmental obligations but also creates new opportunities for local automotive body manufacturers,” Manuel added. “By investing in locally assembled modern PUVs, we can generate jobs, boost the economy, and ensure the country’s transport sector is globally competitive.”

ABMAP is calling on transport cooperatives, local government units, and private companies to work together to speed up the transition. The group is also urging banks and financial institutions to provide affordable financing options for drivers and operators who need help making the switch to modern vehicles.

With the Department of Transportation and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board reinforcing the modernization program, ABMAP remains committed to supporting this transformation.

“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform our transport system for the better,” Manuel said. “By modernizing our public utility vehicles, we are not just complying with the law — we are investing in the future of clean, safe and efficient transportation for all Filipinos.”