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

LTFRB chairperson Vigor D. Mendoza II said the approval is part of the commitment of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. to improve the public transportation system amid issues relating to accessibility.

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

According to the LTFRB, the approval will lead to the acquisition of 162 modern jeepneys, adding more public utility vehicles to serve the growing number of commuters.

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

“We are working double [time] to resolve all these pending petitions, applications and motions without compromising the new petitions and motions,” he added.

The approval is under the Expanded Equity Subsidy (EES) program of the national government, which assists small transport operators in acquiring modern jeepneys.

The EES allows the LTFRB, through the Department of Transportation, to work with private and government financial institutions to help operators avail themselves of loan packages for modern jeepneys.

The subsidy program provides a significant amount for every unit that transport cooperatives acquire.

“We are reviewing a lot because the LTFRB wants to ensure that every centavo given as subsidy to the transport sector will not be wasted, rather, will help a lot in improving the condition of public transportation in the country,” Mendoza said.