Truck body makers back PUV modernization

MANILA, Philippines — A group of truck body manufacturers expressed support for the government’s Public Utility Vehicle Modernization (PUVM) program, saying that it is vital for the improvement of the country’s transportation system while also creating opportunities for the industry.

In a statement over the weekend, Automotive Body Manufacturers Association of the Philippines (ABMAP) executive director Von Carlo Deveza said the program is essential for the improvement of the transportation system in the country.

“ABMAP fully supports the PUVM program as it is a vital step toward modernizing our transportation system,” Deveza said.

“We believe that the program can bring significant benefits to both the transportation sector and the general public,” he said.

ABMAP, which represents the country’s automotive truck body manufacturing sector, recognizes the importance of the PUVMP and its potential to improve the quality of public transportation in the country.

The program aims to replace the old and dilapidated jeepneys with safer, more comfortable, and eco-friendly vehicles.

It also promotes the organization of transport cooperatives as a way to improve the management and operation of public transportation.

“Many successful cooperatives are already plying many routes across the country, and 60 percent of all operators have already organized into cooperatives. Slowly, but surely, people are realizing that we have no choice but to modernize,” Deveza said.

ABMAP said it believes that the PUVM program could boost the local automotive industry, particularly the body manufacturing sector.

It explained that the program

could provide more opportunities for local manufacturers to produce modern and innovative vehicle bodies that comply with international standards.

“We see the PUVM program as an opportunity to promote the local automotive industry and showcase our capabilities in producing modern and innovative vehicle bodies that meet international standards,” Deveza said.

The truck body makers also see the PUVM program as an opportunity to promote sustainable transportation in the country. By replacing the old and inefficient jeepneys with modern and eco-friendly vehicles, the program can contribute to reducing carbon emissions and promoting a cleaner environment.

“ABMAP is committed to supporting the PUVM program and the transport cooperatives that are already operating in the country. We believe that by working together with the government and the transport cooperatives, we can achieve the common goal of providing safe, efficient, and sustainable public transportation for all,” Deveza said.

The group said its support for the PUVM program is a step toward improving the country’s transportation system.

“With the increasing number of successful transport cooperatives already operating in the country, more operators are realizing the benefits of modernizing their vehicles,” ABMAP said.

The group said the PUVM program could provide significant benefits to both the transportation sector and the general public.

“By promoting sustainable transportation and boosting the local automotive industry, the program can contribute to the overall development of the country,” it said.