DOTr to proceed with route rationalization as PUV consolidation reaches 86%

CEBU, Philippines —  The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is now set to implement the rationalization of routes for each local government unit (LGU) under the Local Public Transport Route Plans (LPTRP), as the consolidation program for public utility vehicle (PUV) operators and drivers has now reached 86% completion.

This was revealed by Transportation Undersecretary Jesus Ferdinand Ortega in an interview.

DOTr explained that the LPTRP is a plan that outlines the route network, the identified mode of service to operate on those routes, and the required number of units per mode for delivering public land transport services.

Aside from that, it also includes the frequency of dispatch/headway, location of stops, and other transport facilities, among others.

The plan will be formulated by LGUs and will then serve as the basis for the issuance of the Certification of Public Convenience by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB). DOTr is looking at completing this initiative within the next two years.

“Ang ginagawa natin ngayon route rationalization. Dalawang taon ito, buong Pilipinas i-check ng LGUs, DOTr, at LTFRB ang bawat ruta kung malaman natin kung dadagdagan ang sasakyan o babawasan natin kung makatulong sa trapiko,” Ortega explained through the Department’s Sakay Na! radio program on Radyo Pilipinas.

Once the route rationalization is finalized, the transport agency will proceed to the next phase of the Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP), which involves the replacement of dilapidated traditional jeepneys with modernized units.

“After the next two years, doon pa lang tayo magpapalit ng modern vehicles,” added Ortega.

The proposed reforms aim to enhance the efficiency and accessibility of public transportation, ensuring a more organized and modernized system for commuters.