Despite criticisms from lawmakers, the Marcos administration remains steadfast in its decision not to extend the past deadline for consolidation. According to data from the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) achieved a 75 percent consolidation rate for jeepneys – 112,801 out of the total 150,867 units in the country. This could potentially mean that more than 38,000 jeepneys could be removed from the streets and considered as illegally operating PUVs.
LTFRB Chairperson Teofilo Guadiz stated that they would begin apprehensions on February 1, after the memorandum allowing operations until January 31 lapses. He added that unconsolidated PUVs would have their franchises revoked and be labeled as colorum or unlicensed vehicles. However, he emphasized that due process would still be observed, and individual operators would need to explain why they chose not to join cooperatives.
Meanwhile, Joel Bolano, the chief of the LTFRB technical division, assured that potential gaps in transportation supply next month are already being addressed.
This step is part of the government’s broader goal to modernize public utility vehicles in the country. However, not everyone agrees with the program’s implementation, leading to disagreements between the government and some jeepney operators.
Amid changes in the transportation sector, the government’s role in focusing on a more modern and effective public transportation system is crucial. Nevertheless, collaboration with the affected sectors is also important to ensure a smooth transition from the old system to a better and safer transportation system.