81 percent of public transport have already consolidated under the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP).
The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has begun strict enforcement against unconsolidated vehicles.
The agency deems unconsolidated jeepneys as colorum after failing to meet the April 30 deadline for consolidation.
LTFRB enforcement coincides with a three-day transport strike from June 10 to 12.
Drivers continue to appeal for permission to operate without being labeled as colorum.
During a recent House Transportation Committee hearing, a lawmaker proposed allowing unconsolidated drivers to operate for another year.
In response, LTFRB, according to Department of Transportation (DOTr) Road Transport and Infrastructure Undersecretary Andy Ortega, is still have to evaluate the proposal.
However, Ortega clarifies some misinformation.
According to the official, DOTr did no agreement to allow unconsolidated drivers to operate for another year.
“We could say that all those really interested in joining the program are already in it. So, for those who don’t want to, we give respect to their decision – they are the ones who did not join the consolidation and perhaps want to continue protesting against the government’s program,” said Usec. Andy Ortega, Road Transport & Infrastructure, DOTr.
Meanwhile, DOTr provided an update on the Edsa Busway.
Usec. Ortega reported that five stations on the Edsa Busway now have installed elevators.
“And just the other day, we followed up with our friends in Meralco, and also with the MMDA so that our elevators can finally function. So, we hope this will be finished, done and hopefully functional by this month of June or maybe up to July but we want it to happen,” Ortega added.
