PUVMP consolidation rate hits 85.6 percent – LTFRB

MANILA, Philippines — The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board concluded 2024 with the consolidation for the public utility vehicle modernization program (PUVMP) reaching 85.6 percent by the end of the year, the LTFRB announced yesterday.

LTFRB Chairman Teofilo Guadiz III said 164,137 jeepneys were covered by the PUVMP.

He attributed it to the aggressive campaign and deadline extensions, aimed at ensuring that PUV operators complied with modernization requirements.

“As of Nov. 29, 164,137 of 191,730 PUVs were consolidated. This success was due to our robust outreach initiatives, relaxed policies and collaborative efforts with stakeholders,” Guadiz said.

Launched in 2017, Guadiz said the PUVMP is part of the Public Transport Modernization Program.

“This is considered a milestone not just for the LTFRB, but for the entire government. It took seven years to finally reach this far in terms of the aspiration to modernize the country’s public transport,” he said. “Despite several objections, strikes and moves to suspend the PUVMP, we remain committed to accomplishing the modernization program.”

Guadiz also said the accreditation of new transport network companies and the renewal of existing ones brought the total number of accredited TNCs to 20 as of December 2024.

He said the LTFRB granted a P10 hike in taxi fare, increasing the flag-down rate to P50 from P40.

The LTFRB said an additional increase of P10 in the taxi flag-down rate is being reviewed.

“For next year, we are hopeful that our public transport continues to improve for the benefit of commuters. We in the LTFRB will carry on with our function to contribute to this important cause,” Guadiz said.