LTFRB to issue memo on traditional jeepney franchise extension soon

MANILA: The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), which recently approved the extension of franchises for traditional public utility jeepneys nationwide, is still working on the memorandum circular detailing the specifics of the resolution.

The final details of the extension are being reviewed, according to LTFRB Technical Division Chief Joel Bolano.

He said that they are just waiting for the final date when the authority of the operation of traditional public utility jeepneys will be extended and this will be covered in the next memorandum circular that will be released very soon.

As part of the government's public utility vehicle modernization program (PUVMP), the franchises of thousands of traditional public utility jeepneys were scheduled to end in March and April, however, the LTFRB approved the extension.

Bolano urged the remaining traditional public utility jeepney drivers and operators to join the PUVMP by forming a transport cooperative or corporation with the assistance from the Office of Transport Cooperatives.

He also mentioned that the Project Management Office, which is focused on the PUVMP supports and guides stakeholders for the consolidation requirements and processes.

He added that the PUVMP's objective is not to phase out traditional public utility jeepneys, but to improve the transportation system by upgrading vehicles to meet environmental and safety standards.

LTFRB Chairperson Teofilo Guadiz III stated that so far, only 60% of the target number of vehicles for modernization have met the requirements.

Photo from Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board Facebook page

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