Workers slam 'anti-people' impounding of unconsolidated jeepneys starting February 1

MANILA, Philippines — Labor group Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU) condemned the latest development in the controversial public utility vehicle modernization program (PUVMP) as the government gears up to stop the operation of unconsolidated jeepneys starting February 1.

The statement came after the Land Transportation Office (LTO) earlier announced the expansion of impounding areas for colorum jeepneys in preparation for the crackdown on unconsolidated PUVs.

"LTO's announcement and preparation against jeeps starting February 1 is anti-people and will only burden both drivers and commuters," said KMU in Filipino on Thursday.

"A transport crisis will be the end result of this delusion for commuters... With the planned impounding, the number of trips will be severely cut which will cause a shortage of available vehicles."

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) earlier set the consolidatioin deadline for PUVs on Dec. 31, 2023 in line with the PUVMP.

Those who fail to consolidate into cooperatives and corporations only have until January 31 to operate in routes with less than 60% consolidation rate.

After the consolidation deadline, PUV cooperatives and corporations only have 27 months to transition into modern e-jeeps and minibuses. However, these units could reach up to P2.8 million each.

Because of this, transport groups such as Piston earlier said that the PUVMP in its current form could in turn wipe out small-time operators in favor of big businesses.

The LTFRB earlier said that only 76% or 145,721 PUV units have consolidated before 2024. This means around 24% or 46,017 units remain unconsolidated to this day, with drivers and operators fearing unemployment.

'What will happen to workers?'

"What will happen to workers? They will be forced to ride more expensive modes of transportation. There's also the chance that the supply of vehicles on the road would not suffice," KMU said.

"Would the government take responsibility should workers be forced to be absent or late at work? Will they reimburse the loss of revenue?"

Piston earlier filed for a Supreme Court petition for certiorari and application for a temporary restraining order against the PUVMP, a plea that the Department of Transportation and LTFRB wants to be dismissed.

While the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) recognizes the government's decision to make PUVs safer and more eco-friendly, the agency fears that the program might rob drivers and operators of their right to sustainable livelihood.