(Philippine Daily Inquirer/ Richard A. Reyes)
MANILA, Philippines — The month-long extension given to public utility vehicle (PUV) operators to comply with the consolidation requirement in line with the government’s modernization program is a “breathing room” for policy makers and transport groups to engage in talks, Senator Grace Poe said on Friday.
PUV) operators who have yet to comply with the consolidation requirement under the government’s PUV modernization program will still be allowed to operate on selected routes until January next year.
The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) and its regional offices, however, would issue show cause orders to noncompliant operators.
The LTFRB announced the month-long reprieve on Dec. 28, three days before the Dec. 31 deadline for franchise consolidation.
Poe, chairperson of the Senate committee on public services, said it’s also an opportunity for the government and affected sector to come up with a “humane” modernization program.
“We all want a win-win situation that will improve the livelihood of our small drivers and operators and at the same time give our commuters a better ride,” said Poe in a statement.
“During this period, we expect the route plans to be also clearer in consultation with the affected groups,” she added.
Apart from airing her stand on the consolidation extension, Poe likewise called on the Supreme Court to acknowledge the petitions filed by transport group Piston against the government program.
The high court earlier ordered the Department of Transportation and Land Transportation Office 10 days to respond to the petition filed by Piston.