Jeepney groups press SC on PTMP injunction

MANILA, Philippines — Jeepney drivers and operators yesterday trooped to the Supreme Court, urging the SC to issue a temporary restraining order (TRO) on the implementation of the public transportation modernization program (PTMP), formerly known as the public utility vehicle modernization program.

“We are urging the SC to issue a TRO from the petition we filed,” Pagkakaisa ng mga Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Operators Nationwide (PISTON) member Jason Pahilagutan said.

He said that while the petition filed by transport groups in December last year is pending, the SC should issue a TRO to allow them to temporarily register.

The petitioners include PISTON chairman Modesto Floranda and Pahilagutan, Bayan Muna party-list coordinator Gaylord Despuez, Para-Advocates For Inclusive Transport member Edric Samonte, No to PUV Phaseout Coalition of Panay member Elmer Forro and Komyut spokesperson Ma. Flora Cerna.

In their petition, transport groups asked the SC for a TRO or a writ of preliminary injunction to stop the implementation and ultimately void certain government orders related to the PTMP.

They argued that the program violates certain constitutional rights such as their right to livelihood as they could face bankruptcy due to the price of a modern jeepney, which may cost as high as P2.8 million per unit.

Among the issuances mentioned are the Department of Transportation’s Department Order 2017-11, which serves as the framework for the PUVMP and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board’s Memorandum Circular 2023-051, which set the deadline for the consolidation.

Petitioners reiterated their claim that all the assailed orders issued by the government for the modernization program violate their right to freedom of association and the right to organize.

They also pointed out that the revocation of the individual operator’s franchise without affording them the opportunity to be heard violates the right to procedural due process.

Twenty-two senators previously signed proposed Senate Resolution 1096, urging the government to temporarily suspend the implementation of the PTMP.

President Marcos, however, stood firm on the program, saying it has already been postponed several times.