The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) announced over the weekend that it has approved the applications of 25 transport cooperatives for subsidies in the procurement of modern jeepneys under the Public Transportation Modernization Program (PTMP).

LTFRB Chairperson Atty. Vigor D. Mendoza II said the approval is part of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos, Jr.’s commitment to improve the country’s public transportation system amid concerns about accessibility issues.

The approved applications cover various areas across the country—from northern Luzon to Mindanao.

The LTFRB’s approval of the applications for 25 transport cooperatives will pave the way for the acquisition of 162 modern jeepneys, translating to more public utility vehicles on the road to cater to the growing number of Filipino commuters.

“Our commitment to fast-track all pending petitions is aimed at improving the quality of service in public transportation in the country. The Filipino people deserve better services and a fast government response to ensure their welfare and comfort,” Mendoza said.

“We are working double to resolve all pending petitions, applications, and motions without compromising the new petitions and motions. Malaki na ang pagbabago sa LTFRB (“There has been a big change at the LTFRB”),” he emphasized.

The approval of the applications of 25 transport cooperatives is under the Expanded Equity Subsidy (EES) of the national government. The program is designed to assist small transport operators in acquiring modern jeepneys.

The EES allows the LTFRB, through the Department of Transportation (DOTr), to partner with private and government financial institutions to help transport operators avail of loan packages for modern jeepneys.

The EES provides a significant government subsidy for each unit that transport cooperatives acquire.

“Marami pa po tayong nire-review (“We are still reviewing many applications”) because the LTFRB wants to ensure that every centavo given as subsidy to the transport sector will not be wasted, but will instead help improve the condition of public transportation in the country,” Mendoza said.