Jeepneys stay; PUVMP pursued

The PUVMP remains on track for full implementation.

Cool change coming Under the PUV Modernization Program, safer and more comfortable public transport is envisioned to replace antiquated vehicles that causes pollution and traffic jams. BOB DUNGO JR. @tribunephl_bob

The symbolic jeepneys will not disappear under the modernization program of public transportation.

The government has no intention to give up on the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP), but it will allow a one-year provisional authority on operators of the classic jeepneys that pass a roadworthiness test.

Department of Transportation (DoTr) Secretary Arthur Tugade said the PUVMP remains on track for full implementation, adding that the agency did not issue any statement about halting the key reform project.

The DoTr, however, expressed consideration for operators of old PUV units who fail to modernize their units by July 2020 and will be “temporarily” allowed, through a provisional authority (PA) effective for one year, to provide public transport service.

The vehicles, which are famous around the world as Manila’s Kings of the Road, should, however, pass the roadworthiness test of the Motor Vehicle Inspection System (MVIS), which will not involve any human intervention.

Further, by 30 June 2020, PUV operators intending to seek a PA while awaiting the modernization of their units are expected to submit a petition for consolidation.

“The overall direction on modernization is very clear: following the directive of President Rodrigo Duterte, the DoTr will push PUV modernization to provide commuters a safe, convenient and comfortable travel, promote an environment-friendly road transport service, uplift the livelihood of both operators and drivers and improve the overall road transport industry in the country,” Tugade said.

“Past administrations wanted to modernize transportation, but every time people wave flags saying that the program is anti-poor, they take a step back. This has to stop,” according to Tugade.

He insisted that modernization should be implemented now. “We will not stop anyone from expressing their right. But you need to make sure that you do not step on other people’s rights,” he added.

“You have to consider the common good. Break that and I will fight you,” Tugade indicated.

“Remember we are not fighting the few. We are protecting the many,” he explained.

DoTr Assistant Secretary for Communications and Commuter Affairs Goddes Hope Libiran said the PA would have to be renewed yearly.

Iconic jeepneys which remain roadworthy will not be relegated to the museum. YUMMIE DINGDING@tribunephl_yumi

Another condition for the granting of a PA is for existing operators to file a petition for consolidation on or before 30 June next year.

“Should the existing operators fail to file for consolidation, their route will be opened to all interested applicants, and the existing operators will no longer enjoy the prior operator rule,” Libiran said.

Operators of old PUV that pass the MVIS still need to express their intention to eventually drop their old units and buy modern PUV in a separate petition.

“If not, then their routes will be opened up to new operators,” Libiran said.

The DoTr said once cooperatives or corporations deploy enough modern public transport on particular routes, the PA of the old PUV would be automatically canceled.