Groups in Northern Mindanao oppose suspension of PUV modernization

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — At least 16 of 52 transport cooperatives in Northern Mindanao have signed a manifesto decrying Sen. Raffy Tulfo and Senate President Chiz Escudero for moving for the temporary suspension of the government’s Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP).

Luzviminda Escobidal, convenor of the Unity Walk for PTMP in Northern Mindanao, said that supposedly, the Local Public Transport Route Plan will be implemented in the city on August 1, but due to the Senate resolution signed by 22 senators and the city government’s focus on the Higalaay Festival, it was moved to September 1.

READ: 22 senators seek suspension of PUV modernization program

She said that the group will participate in the synchronized national unity walk on August 5 that will ask President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to forego the suspension.

“The PTMP is a cornerstone of our collective effort to modernize and enhance public transportation, ensuring it meets the growing demands of our community. The suspension of this program poses significant risks to our progress, and we must unite to present a strong, unified front against these challenges,” Escobidal said.

“While minority groups like Manibela and Piston are making their voices heard, it is imperative that we, as the majority, make our presence felt and our voices heard even louder. This is our moment to demonstrate our collective strength and commitment to advancing our transportation system,” she added.

Presently, there are 151 modern jeepney units plying various routes in the city, funded by loans from a government bank upon the consolidation of the route plan.

Escobidal noted that about 90 percent of public utility vehicle operators are now consolidated.