More than 30,000 traditional jeepneys in Metro Manila are facing the possibility of losing their franchises by the end of the year. According to the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), a staggering 73.5 percent of jeepneys operating in various routes in Metro Manila have yet to file their applications for consolidation, with less than a week remaining before the December 31 deadline for the consolidation of public utility vehicles (PUVs) under the PUV Modernization Program (PUVMP).
The situation is not much better on a national scale, as 30 percent of jeepneys across the country have failed to comply with the consolidation deadline. In Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon) and the Zamboanga Peninsula, the figures stand at 66 percent and 63 percent respectively, highlighting the widespread challenges faced by jeepney operators in meeting the requirements.
Under Memorandum Circular 2023-051, approved and signed by the LTFRB on December 14, all provisional authorities issued to individual operators of traditional jeepneys without consolidated transport service entities (TSEs) will be deemed revoked effective January 1, 2024. This means that operators will no longer be able to register these units as PUVs.
However, for those operators who were able to file their application for consolidation on or before the deadline, they will be allowed to continue operating under their existing provisional authority, which will remain valid until December 31, 2024. This provides some relief for those who have taken the necessary steps to comply with the jeepney modernization program.
The consolidation deadline has been met with significant resistance from transport groups, who argue that the mandatory franchise consolidation will inevitably lead to the phaseout of traditional jeepneys, resulting in the loss of livelihood for drivers and operators. Despite the protests, the government has remained steadfast in its decision not to extend the December 31 deadline.
In fact, last week, the Pagkakaisa ng mga Samahan ng Tsuper at Opereytor Nationwide (Piston) and other transport groups filed a petition before the Supreme Court, seeking to halt the enforcement of the program. According to Piston President Mody Floranda, if the deadline is not extended, “then there will be a massive transport crisis not only in Metro Manila.”
The jeepney modernization program aims to improve the public transportation system in the Philippines by replacing outdated and inefficient jeepneys with more environmentally friendly and safer vehicles. While the program has its merits, it is crucial to address the concerns of the affected jeepney operators and drivers to ensure a smooth transition.
As the consolidation deadline approaches, it is essential for all stakeholders to work together to find viable solutions that balance the need for modernization with the preservation of livelihoods. This may involve providing financial assistance, training programs, and alternative employment opportunities for those affected by the consolidation.
Ultimately, the success of the PUV Modernization Program will depend on the government’s ability to address the concerns of jeepney operators and drivers while also delivering on its promise of a more efficient and sustainable public transportation system. By finding common ground and engaging in meaningful dialogue, it is possible to achieve a win-win situation that benefits both the commuters and the transport sector.
Source: The Manila Times
