Transport groups want gov’t to buy old PUJs

CEBU, Philippines - The transport sector in Cebu wants the government to purchase the old Public Utility Jeepneys that will be affected in the proposed phaseout.

"Mao na among gusto nga paliton sa gobyerno ang mga jeepneys nga ma-phased out para ang halin niini mao ni idungag pagpalit og mga brand new units," said transport consultant Metudio Belarmino.

The demand of the transport sector will be discussed during a forum on PUJ Modernization Programs at the Cebu City Hall tomorrow.

The transport groups also wanted the government to increase the age limit of PUJs to be phased out from 15 years to 20 years old and to implement the program in2018 until 2026.

 "The modernization plan must be seriously viewed by the government since it will greatly affects the transport sector and with this we challenge the government to focus on finding alternatives of the modernization," the proposal reads.

The group also wanted the government to make a genuine consultation among the stakeholders so that proper solution will be made to address their concerns.

The proposal was submitted to Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board-7 regional director Ahmed Cuizon.

The proponents include Cebu Integrated Transport Multi-purpose Cooperative, National Confederation of Transportworkers Union-Central Visayas, Alyansa sa Nagkahiusang Dryabers at Operators Nationwide and Basak Lapu-Lapu Jeepney Operators and Drivers Association.

Belarmino said they have also invited other transport groups in Cebu to attend the consultation. (FREEMAN)