DOTr sees 80% hike in PUV consolidation

CEBU, Philippines — The Department of Transportation (DOTr) expects the three-month extension of the deadline for franchise consolidation of public utility vehicles (PUV) in the country would bring an over 85 percent consolidation rate to make the government’s PUV Modernization Program (PUVMP) a success.

With the current nationwide consolidation rate at 76.6 percent, that means an increase of at least eight percent.

“We’ll allow more to join as a result of the extension. With this extension, we can increase the consolidation rate to around 85 percent,” said Sec. Jaime Bautista, DOTr secretary, during a media briefing Thursday.

Last Wednesday, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. his recommendation to grant an additional three months, or until April 30, 2024, for the consolidation of public utility vehicles franchises as set under the PUVMP.

The extension is made to give an opportunity to those who expressed their intention to consolidate but did not make the previous cut-off set last Dec. 31, 2023.

Bautista also said that the extension will create more opportunities for transport workers, while ensuring that sufficient PUVs are operating.

“With the three-month extension, we encourage our drivers and operators to join the PUV modernization program. This gives them ample time to join the PUVMP and thus provide for their families,” he said.

Earlier, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board disclosed that the total consolidated number of PUVs is now at 190,000 units, which include UV Express vans, public utility jeepneys, mini-buses, and buses.

In the same press briefing, Bautista emphasized that the PUVMP’ would improve PUV operations through efficient fleet management and dispatching.

“Napaka-importante nitong component na consolidation because it will improve jeepney operations,” he said, while also saying that it likewise provide commuter convenience and safety. (CEBU NEWS)