Sen. Mary Grace Poe has once again called for a review of the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP), highlighting the lack of safety nets for drivers and operators who will bear the brunt of the December 31 consolidation deadline. While the program is set to receive a budget of P1.6 billion next year, it fails to include measures to protect the livelihood of around 300,000 drivers.
In a statement, Sen. Poe expressed her concern over the fact that their recommendations for driver protection under the PUV modernization program were not approved. She emphasized that promises were made by the concerned agencies to review the program before any December deadline.
As the chairman of the Senate Committee on Public Services, Sen. Poe highlighted that funds have been allocated to the Department of Transportation (DoTr) since 2018 to formulate a route plan for the PUVs. The route rationalization study plays a crucial role in determining the number of jeepneys, UV Express vehicles, and buses needed to operate on a particular route, thereby ensuring their viability.
However, the progress on this front has been slow, with only 9.5 percent, or 155 of the 1,575 local government units, having approved route plans to date. This delay in route approval could have a significant impact on the December 31 consolidation deadline, potentially affecting thousands of drivers who have yet to organize themselves into cooperatives.
Sen. Poe also highlighted the financial challenges faced by drivers in complying with the modernization program. With each modern jeepney unit costing around P2.5 million, the government’s subsidy covers only 8.4 percent, or P210,000. To subsidize approximately 300,000 PUV units, the government would require at least P63 billion, which is not currently allocated in the 2024 budget.
Given these circumstances, Sen. Poe emphasized that PUV drivers should not be blamed if they resort to organizing another transport strike to voice their concerns. To address these issues, she has filed Senate Bill 105, which aims to ensure a “just and humane public utility vehicle modernization program.” The bill proposes providing affordable loans to jeepney drivers and cash subsidies to those who may not be able to comply with the new policies.
Sen. Poe concluded her statement by calling on her colleagues to prioritize the enactment of the just and humane PUV Modernization Act. It is clear that there are significant challenges and concerns that need to be addressed to ensure the successful implementation of the program while safeguarding the livelihoods of drivers and operators.
Source: The Manila Times
