Clear Roadmap Needed for PUV Modernization Program, Says Senate President

Senate President Sherwin “Win” T. Gatchalian on Tuesday called on the Department of Transportation (DoTr) to finalize a clear roadmap to ensure the long-term success of the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP). In a statement, Mr. Gatchalian said the department needs to complete basic components of the program, such as route rationalization, which determines the necessary routes and number of public transportation units to respond to passenger demand. During a Senate hearing on the DoTr’s budget for next year on September 18, Mr. Gatchalian raised concerns over the delayed completion of route rationalization studies initiated during the previous administration of President Rodrigo R. Duterte. “We keep allocating money to [the PUVMP], but the project never gets finished. We’ve already reached a point of high oil prices. They [operators and drivers] will struggle to pay their amortization,” he stated. Transportation Secretary Giovanni Z. Lopez agreed, adding that rising fuel prices will make it harder for operators and drivers to pay. He emphasized that the PUVMP must therefore push forward. The program aims to replace aging public utility vehicles, such as jeepneys, with more environmentally friendly and safer modern units. However, many operators and drivers express concerns about the high loan repayments for new vehicles and potential income reduction due to route changes. The government has offered support measures like subsidies and low-interest loans, but challenges remain regarding their effectiveness and public awareness.