Press Release - Adequate gov't support necessary for public transport modernization program --Gatchalian

Senator Win Gatchalian said the Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP), formerly known as the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP), is achievable with adequate government support. He emphasized his ongoing commitment to the initiative.

"Sa ngayon, hindi pa natutugunan ng gobyerno ang lahat ng hamong kinakaharap ng panukalang programa," Gatchalian said.

"The success of the public transport modernization program depends heavily on the strength of the government's support. A temporary suspension is necessary so we can pause and reconsider how to strengthen the program for its effective implementation," he added.

Specifically, the government needs to enhance its financial support for the program to ease the burden on operators and drivers, according to Gatchalian. The government has been criticized for providing inadequate financial assistance to operators to acquire modern public utility vehicle (PUV) units. The limited financing options prevent operators from purchasing new vehicles. Some driver and operator groups argue that the modernization program imposes an undue burden, requiring them to buy modern units costing over P2 million each.

"Other components of the program that have not yet been met include the consolidation of the remaining 17% units of jeepneys, UV Express, Filcabs, and buses into cooperatives. Another component is the route rationalization," said Gatchalian, adding that as of now, there has been a significant delay in the approval of the Local Public Transport Route Plan (LPTRP) due to slow decision-making bureaucratic processes.

The lawmaker also said the government has not provided adequate support to the drivers in terms of retraining, livelihood options, and social protection.

"The government should ensure a smooth transition, alleviate the financial burden of transport operators and drivers, and launch a comprehensive and thorough information campaign," the senator added.

"The birthing pains are unavoidable if we want to achieve a meaningful transformation of our transport sector. Still, we should be willing to sit down and help address the pain points," he ended.

Sapat na suporta mula sa gobyerno kailangan para sa