ANGARA FILES RESO TO LOOK INTO THE PUV MODERNIZATION PROGRAM TO ENSURE WELFARE OF AFFECTED DRIVERS AND OPERATORS

Senator Sonny Angara has filed a resolution to look into the recently launched public utility vehicle (PUV) modernization program so as to effectively address the transport needs of the commuting public while ensuring the rights and welfare of affected operators and drivers.

The Department of Transportation officially launched on Monday the PUV modernization program which seeks to provide safe, comfortable and eco-friendly mode of public transport to commuters.

The program aims to gradually phase out old and dilapidated jeepneys, operating for 15 years or more, and replace them with environment-friendly vehicles equipped with more efficient engines, such as Euro 4 engines or electrically powered engines with solar panels for roofs.

The program, however, was met with protests from transport groups that called for the deferment of its implementation, saying that small jeepney operators do not have enough money to finance the conversion of jeepneys to solar-powered vehicles.

"We must allay the fears of the vulnerable members of our public transport sector by ensuring that adequate social protection measures are in place. Dapat ay mabigyan sila ng sapat na tulong pinansyal para sila ay makasunod sa modernisasyon. Dahil talaga pong umaalma ang mga tsuper at malilit na operators sa pangambang mawawalan sila ng hanapbuhay kapag tuluyan nang ipagbawal ang pagbyahe ng mga lumang jeepney," said Angara, chairman of the Senate ways and means committee.

The Department of Finance has stated that part of the incremental revenues that will be collected from the proposed increase in excise taxes on oil will go the PUV modernization program to subsidize the conversion of jeepneys to more efficient engines and bodies.

Meanwhile, another major component of the PUV modernization program is the Omnibus Franchising Guidelines, which requires local government units to develop a transport route plan based on passenger demand and the existing local road network, which will serve as basis for franchise issuance by the LTFRB.

Moreover, drivers will be provided with regular monthly salaries and benefits, instead of the prevailing boundary system, as well as reduced working hours.

Training and capacity building programs will likewise be set up for PUV drivers and operators to inculcate road safety lessons to minimize accidents on the road, and proper etiquette when dealing with passengers.

"Jeepneys remain the most affordable and accessible mode of transport in our country-providing livelihood to thousands of micro-operators and drivers. While the PUV modernization program is integral to the traffic management solution of the country, there is an urgent need to thoroughly assess the impact of the program on the sustainability of jeepney operations that serve the vast majority of Filipino public commuters," Angara said.