Stop PUV modernization, transport group asks SC

MANILA, Philippines —  Transport group Pagkakaisa ng mga Samahan ng Tsuper at Opereytor Nationwide (Piston) yesterday asked the Supreme Court (SC) to stop the implementation and ultimately void certain government orders related to the public utility vehicle modernization program (PUVMP).

Piston filed a petition for certiorari and injunction questioning the legality of the Dec. 31 deadline set for the PUVMP, and also sought a temporary restraining order to prevent its implementation until the petition is resolved.

The group also asked the SC to declare the order formalizing the modernization plan and circulars for the consolidation as null and void.

In a 56-page petition, the group argued that the latest memorandum circular of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board revoking the provisional authorities of unconsolidated operators was a “gross and patent violation” of the individual operators’ freedom of association as guaranteed by the Constitution.

Piston and transport group Manibela have been conducting nationwide strikes to protest the Dec. 31 consolidation deadline.

President Marcos said there would be no further extension for the franchise consolidation, adding that the government “cannot let the minority cause further delays.”

P450 million for drivers

With the expected surge in the number of displaced jeepney drivers, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has allotted P450 million for the implementation of alternative livelihood programs for them.

“Better to have more budget than have many drivers affected and there is no budget,” Labor Undersecretary Benjo Benavidez said in an interview on Tuesday.

Benavidez added that if there is no extension in the deadline for the consolidation of PUV operators, displaced jeepney drivers are expected to flock for government assistance in January next year.

He invited affected jeepney drivers and operators to go to DOLE and other concerned government agencies to seek assistance.

Through its attached agency, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, DOLE would provide free skills training for interested drivers and operators.

According to Benavidez, DOLE has been extending assistance to jeepney drivers and operators affected by the planned modernization program since 2021.

He noted that DOLE has released P150 million for the livelihood assistance of displaced jeepney drivers and operators. – Mayen Jaymalin