House sets probe of ‘corruption’ in PUVMP

MANILA, Philippines — Speaker Martin Romualdez has directed the House of Representatives’ transportation committee to investigate the public utility vehicle modernization program (PUVMP), saying he has received reports that it is fraught with corruption.

In a statement, Romualdez yesterday also said he is urging the Department of Transportation to conduct a “complete review” of the program before implementing it.

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has reported a 76 percent consolidation rate nationwide for jeepneys and UV Express Service units, claiming success in the early stage of the government’s controversial PUVMP.

LTFRB data showed a total of 145,721 UV and jeepney units have consolidated nationwide.

The House leader, however, said his office has received reports that “corrupt practices” may have tainted the conceptualization and planned implementation PUVMP, which requires operators and drivers to “consolidate” or organize into groups or cooperatives to ensure efficiency and better management and accountability.

Only those that have consolidated would be allowed to ply routes utilizing modern and supposedly environment-friendly jeepneys, which are actually mini-buses.

“The reports allege that existing transport officials are in cahoots with previous officials in negotiating for the imported modern jeepney units that will replace the old units,” he said.

The government originally gave jeepney drivers and operators until the end of December 2023 to join or organize into cooperatives or get banned from plying their usual routes. It extended the deadline, however, for another 30 days when it became evident that a sizeable number of jeepney operators and drivers had not yet consolidated.

Romualdez clarified that he supports the program and only wants assurance of “enough measures that would protect jeepney drivers.”

“While we stride towards modernity and efficiency, we remain steadfast in safeguarding the welfare and livelihood of our jeepney drivers, who are an integral part of this journey. Together, we can achieve a transportation system that is reflective of the Philippines’ growth, respecting our traditions while paving the way for a more sustainable future,” he maintained.

He also said the jeepney has “long been a symbol of our nation’s vibrant culture and enduring spirit.”

“As we embrace progress and innovation, it is imperative that we address the need for modern, efficient and environmentally friendly transport systems,” he added.

Romualdez explained the PUVMP is “not just about upgrading vehicles,” as it is more of a “comprehensive plan to rejuvenate our urban transportation landscape, making it safer, more reliable and in tune with sustainable practices.”

He called jeepney drivers “the hardworking individuals who have been the backbone of our local transport industry for decades.”

“Their welfare is our primordial concern. As we transition to modernized jeepneys, we recognize the challenges faced by drivers and operators,” he added.

Consolidation rate

Meanwhile, the national consolidation rate was 82 percent for UV Express and 73.6 percent for jeepneys.

The LTFRB said it has reached its target numbers for consolidation, even in Metro Manila.

A total of 25,629 jeepney units met the Dec. 31 deadline as against the 22,284 confirmed traditional units in the LTFRB system.

“The campaign for consolidation during the last stretch was effective. The manner by which agencies have been opening offices and relaxing their requirements and reaching out to operators was effective in trying to reach what we have expected,” board member Riza Marie Paches said at a press briefing.

The LTFRB said it is still gathering data in terms of the actual number of routes that would be affected.

Paches allayed fears of a potential transport crisis once the unconsolidated units are taken off the road across the country.

The Board has given unconsolidated drivers and operators a reprieve, as they would be able to serve in selected routes.

Over 60,000 PUVs could be left without franchises and would not be allowed to ply their routes once the month-long reprieve for unconsolidated units ends.

Paches explained that there are consolidated transport service entities that can serve affected routes, citing “redundancy of supply” in terms of transport modes.

She explained that commuters would feel the decline in supply, but the LTFRB is coming up with contingency measures such as issuing special permits to meet the demand.