LTFRB eyes number coding exemption for Metro PUVs

INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

THE LAND Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) is considering exempting public utility vehicles (PUVs) operating in Metro Manila from the number coding scheme to get rid of “colorum” vehicles.

During a press conference on Monday, LTFRB Chair Martin Delgra III said this was one of the solutions being eyed by the agency in coordination with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and the Philippine National Police-Highway Patrol Group.

“One of the solutions we are eyeing is the lifting of the number coding for PUVs,” Delgra told reporters, adding that colorum (those operating without a transport franchise) passenger vehicles continue to operate because of the lack of an efficient and reliable transport system.

He pointed out, however, that the proposal would have to be discussed first with Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade and President Duterte.

Delgra added that he had set up a meeting with Armed Forces officials, adding that they may tap soldiers in the “unrelenting” crackdown against illegally-operating PUVs.

“Colorum vehicles undermine public safety because of the lack of standards. [Drivers of these vehicles] also abuse unsuspecting passengers,” he said.

If people were presented with more alternative modes of public transportation, they would be encouraged to switch to PUVs instead of using their private vehicles, Delgra added.

He had earlier stressed in his speech before LTFRB employees that the agency adhered to the belief that “roads are for people, not cars.”

Delgra added that under his leadership, all efforts would be focused on easing the plight of commuters who put up with the “daily grind,” especially on Edsa, which he said had become “infamous [for] what is fundamentally wrong in the way we manage traffic congestion.”

“We ought to revisit our mission to ensure the commuting public has adequate, safe, convenient [and] environment-friendly public transportation service through the implementation of land-based transport policies, programs and projects,” he said. With Arianne Cardino