PUV modernization will push through as planned – DOTr

The public utility vehicle (PUV) modernization program will be implemented as planned despite the points brought up by Senator Grace Poe during the recent Senate hearing, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) clarified.

Transportation Undersecretary for Roads, Transport and Infrastructure Thomas Orbos emphasized in a press conference Tuesday three points to prove that they are ready to implement the program.

“Primarily, handa po ang ating gobyerno for modernization [program]. Number two, within three years, gagawin po namin iyan. Number three, magsisimula po kami ng 2018, January (Our government is ready for the modernization program; number two, in three years, we shall do it; number three, we shall start in January 20181,” Orbos said.

In an earlier public hearing, Senator Poe had pointed out that the government’s plan is still not concrete to be fully implemented.

Poe is the chairman of the Senate committee on public services. She had conducted the hearing after transport Pinagkaisang Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Opereytor Nationwide (PISTON) planned to stage a two-day transport strike earlier this month.

Poe said that the department needs to clarify the program’s clear guidelines such as its funding and accreditation of manufacturers.

Orbos debunked Poe’s opinion that it will be hard for the department to implement the program within three years.

Orbos clarified that the first three years, starting January 2018, will be their transitory period. He added that the full implementation will be after three years or hopefully, within the period.

He explained that the “full-blast” implemen- tation next year will not only be in Metro Manila but also in Central Luzon, Cagayan de Oro, and General Santos City, among others.

LTFRB chairman Martin Delgra, who was also present during the press conference, also emphasized that the government is backing up their modernization program after President Rodrigo Duterte’s statement to clear old jeepneys by January.