LTFRB sees 40 percent modernized PUVs in Metro by 2027

MANILA, Philippines — The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) yesterday expressed hope that at least 40 percent of modernized public transports will be operating in Metro Manila by 2027 amid the implementation of the public utility vehicle modernization program (PUVMP).

LTFRB Chairman Teofilo Guadiz III said operators of traditional jeepneys who joined the consolidation would be given until 2027 to comply with the PUVMP.

“Our timeline will be a gradual phaseout of traditional jeepneys,” Guadiz said.

He noted that 1,000 PUVs have submitted applications for consolidation as the deadline ended on Nov. 29.

“In fact, during the last day, we were surprised that 1,000 PUV operators applied for consolidation,” he said.

The LTFRB started impounding jeepneys, which failed to join the consolidation.

“Jeepney operators who joined the consolidation were allowed to operate. We gave them time to fix their units. They were given three years to do that,” Guadiz said.

Mar Valbuena, president of  transport group Manibela, maintained that around 8,000 jeepney drivers and operators who joined the consolidation opted to withdraw from the PUVMP, but have yet to be acted upon by the LTFRB.

“We have proof that many (drivers and operators) have filed their withdrawal, including in Metro Manila, Central Luzon and other regions,” Valbuena said.

He said the PUVMP consolidation rate would drop once the LTFRB approves the withdrawal of the drivers and operators.