MMDA stays jeepney apprehensions

In this photo taken on April 5, 2024, jeepneys commute along a street in Manila.  AFP

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) will wait for guidelines from the Department of Transportation before making any apprehension of unconsolidated public utility vehicles (PUVs). The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) earlier said that the apprehension of unconsolidated PUVs will be by the Land Transportation Office, MMDA and Philippine National Police starting on Thursday. But as of Friday, the LTFRB had yet to confirm if apprehensions have begun. The board, in a statement on Thursday, reminded the consolidated jeepneys and other PUVs to display their franchise documents on their dashboard or windshields to avoid apprehension. The consolidation of PUVs for the PUV Modernization Program (PUVMP) ended on April 30 after several suspensions. The LTFRB reminded drivers and operators of the unconsolidated PUVs that if apprehended, their driver’s licenses will be suspended for one year, the operator fined P50,000, and the vehicle impounded for 30 days.—JEROME ANING