LTFRB, DOTr: PUV modernization to go on despite Senate’s suspension reso

(INQUIRER file photo / GRIG C. MONTEGRANDE)

MANILA, Philippines — The Land Transportation and Franchising Regulatory Board (LTFRB) and Department of Transportation (DOTr) on Thursday said that the Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP) will go on despite the filing of Senate Resolution No. 1096 calling for the suspension of the program due to concerns raised by some drivers and transport groups.

“We assure the drivers, operators, and stakeholders who participated in the PUVMP that it will proceed as long as there is no directive coming from the President and the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to halt the program,” LTFRB Chairman Teofile Guadiz III said in a statement.

Guadiz added that the LTFRB respects the resolution signed by 22 out of 23 senators.

Only Sen. Risa Hontiveros did not sign it.

According to the senators, the program needs a thorough review and reassessment to ease the fears of the drivers and operators who will be directly affected by its implementation.

In a separate statement issued the same day, the DOTr affirmed the LTFRB’s assurance to the drivers and operators that the PTMP will continue despite the petition.

“The Department of Transportation (DOTr) will push through with the nationwide Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP) as majority of the transport sector have signed up under the program,” it said.

The DOTr added that it will enforce the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to proceed with the PTMP after the deadline for consolidation lapsed last April 30.