Signaling the lift of the 13-year moratorium on the franchises of new public-utility vehicles (PUVs), the long-delayed modernization program for public transport was launched on Tuesday, with government officials vowing to assist drivers and operators in the planned three-year initiative.
Transportation Secretary Arthur P. Tugade, along with other government officials, signed the Omnibus Franchising Guidelines, which requires local government units to develop their own Local Public Transport Route Plan.
The local transport plan will be based on the current and projected travel patterns in their respective areas, and shall be used by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) as basis for issuing franchise.
PUV drivers and operators, meanwhile, have been vocal in expressing disapproval in the modernization program, suggesting that their vehicles could undergo rebuilding instead.
“Unfortunately, what they are suggesting is not a holistic rehabilitation. We want a modern jeepney that has a convenience and safety features, drivability and maneuverability for the drivers and passengers. We will not allow rebuilding,” Transportation Assistant Secretary Mark Richmund M. de Leon said.
According to LTFRB Chairman Martin B. Delgra III, there will be a special loan program that would provide operators low equity, low interest rates and longer payment periods.