Marcos Jr. Affirms PTMP Gains, Calls for Broader Cooperation

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has reaffirmed the government's commitment to the Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP), highlighting its accomplishments and calling for continued cooperation among stakeholders to foster a more reliable, practical, and efficient public transportation system. During his 5th State of the Nation Address (SONA), Marcos Jr. emphasized the crucial role of industry support in accelerating the modernization of public vehicles, assuring the public that the program's implementation would be humane, smooth, and just. The Department of Transportation (DOTr), under Secretary Giovanni Lopez, is steering a renewed strategy for PTMP, focusing on tangible improvements in its designated Focus Areas. This includes strengthening collaboration with Transport Service Entities (TSEs), expanding the deployment of modern Public Utility Vehicles (PUVs), and advancing route planning. Secretary Lopez noted the increasing number of consolidated TSEs as an encouraging sign of progress within the transport sector. He stated that nearly a decade of PTMP implementation has yielded valuable insights into best practices for successful modernization, guiding efforts to build stronger transport organizations, enhance commuter services, and create better opportunities for drivers and operators. As of May 2026, 3,090 transport cooperatives and corporations have been formed under the program, with membership growing to 264,052 operators and drivers, up from 190,754. This expansion reflects broader participation in PTMP. In line with the administration's commitment to a just transition, the DOTr has reopened applications for consolidation. This policy allows individual operators to either establish new TSEs or join existing entities, providing more opportunities for participation in PTMP, subject to LTFRB guidelines. The deployment of modern PUVs has also seen significant growth, with 12,052 units now operating nationwide, a 143.8 percent increase from 4,944 in July 2022. Furthermore, 619 Local Government Units (LGUs) have completed their Local Public Transport Route Plans (LPTRPs), contributing to more efficient and responsive transport networks. President Marcos Jr. also recognized the PTMP's social support programs, specifically Tsuper Iskolar and EnTSUPERneur. These initiatives provide transport workers with skills training and livelihood assistance. To date, 38,650 beneficiaries have received skills training through Tsuper Iskolar, and 6,358 have received livelihood assistance under EnTSUPERneur, thereby widening economic opportunities for drivers and operators as the sector modernizes. The DOTr plans to further strengthen the program through strategic initiatives, including deepening collaboration with the JICA Technical Cooperation Project (TCP) and expanding capacity-building initiatives for TSEs, aiming for long-term sustainability and a more efficient, organized, and commuter-focused public transport system. Information source: Philstar Business