Labor group fears fare hike, job loss due to PUV modernization program

(INQUIRER FILE PHOTO / GRIG C. MONTEGRANDE)

MANILA, Philippines — The Alyansa ng Manggagawa sa Probinsya ng Laguna labor group on Sunday said it fears a  possible fare hike with impending implementation of the government’s Public Utility Vehicles (PUV) modernization program.

“It will definitely become an additional burden for every worker in Laguna, especially when their daily wages range from only P385-520,” the group said in Filipino in its post on social media.

Previously, transport group Piston mentioned that it is anticipating a  minimum fare increase to P35 with an additional P3 per succeeding kilometer if traditional jeepney units are be replaced with modern ones.

The labor group also voiced its concern over the loss of jobs in the transport sector upon the implementation of the program.

Another labor group, Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU), likewise pointed out that the modernization program will displace thousands of jeepney drivers and operators.

“Transport disaster, livelihood massacre! Bongbong’s New Year’s welcome!” KMU said in its own post on X (formerly twitter).

Meanwhile, labor leader Atty. Luke Espiritu of Bukluran ng Manggagawang Pilipino called for a pro-people approach to the implementation of the PUV modernization program.

“Oppose the jeepney phaseout. A reasonable, inclusive, and worker-friendly transition towards a modern transportation system,” Espiritu said.

According to Piston, more than 86,000 transport sector workers will lose their jobs as 2024 rolls in due to the program.

The transport group also warned of a “transport disaster” affecting 28.5 million commuters in Metro Manila alone once  the PUV modernization program pushes through next year.

Despite this, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) has remained firm in imposing the December 31 deadline for franchise consolidation and has belied Piston’s claims of a transport crisis.

The DOTr earlier said that it is coordinating with key agencies to prepare for the possible reduction in the number of operating PUV units.