Transport groups back PUV modernization

SEVEN major national transport groups, the so-called Magnificent 7, have jointly expressed support for the modernization of public utility vehicles (PUVs).

«We would like to clarify the fear of our fellow drivers and operators regarding the upcoming phase out on December 31, 2023. There will be no phaseout that will happen to our traditional jeepneys,» Magnificent 7 said in a statement on Friday.

Magnificent 7 is composed of Pasang Masda (PM), Liga ng Transportasyon at Operators sa Pilipinas (LTOP) Stop and Go Transport Coalition, Pagkakaisa ng mga Samahan ng Tsuper at Operator Nationwide (Piston), Federation of Jeepney Operators and Drivers Associations of the Philippines (Fejodap), Alliance of Concerned Transport Organizations (Acto), and Alliance of Transport Operators and Drivers Association (Altodap).

In the statement, they also pointed out that in the modernization process, a «just transition» must be achieved to benefit operators, drivers and commuters.

«We know that this modernization causes fear to our colleagues because it is far from the usual,» the joint statement stated.

Pasang Masda's national president Robert «Ka Obet» Martin, one of the signatories to the statement, said that they fully support the government's modernization of PUVs and urged operators and drivers to comply with the program so they can provide safe and comfortable transportation service for commuters.

«We are calling on our fellow citizens to have open minds and hearts toward the impending modernization. This is necessary for our country to keep up with new technologies, ensuring the safety and comfort of commuters in our public transportation system,» Martin said.

Piston M7 membership

As of press time, The Manila Times was still awaiting Piston's confirmation of its membership with the Magnificent 7 as its president Mody Floranda recently opposed the consolidation process deadline of the public utility vehicles modernization (PUVM) on December 31.