DOTr stands firm on PUV modernization program

MANILA: The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has reaffirmed its stance on its nationwide implementation of the Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP). 

According to the agency, it has decided to be firm on the matter as a majority of the transport section has already signed up for the aforementioned program. 

Per Transporation Undersecretary for Road Transport and Infrastructure Jesus Ferdinand Ortega, the agency is set to enforce the initiation of the PTMP as ordered by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Notably, the program’s last consolidation deadline lapsed a few months ago, on April 2024. 

“Yung lahat sa sektor ng transportasyon na gustong sumama [sa modernization> ay nasa loob na po. Wala po tayong naiwanan. On the part of the DOTr, we were given a marching order po ng Pangulo, 100 percent go po ito (Those in the transport sector who want to participate in modernization are already in. We will leave no one behind. On the part of the DOTr, we were given a marching order by the president. The project is 100 percent a go),"  Ortega said during a radio interview.

To summarize, the PTMP will seek to upgrade public utility jeepney units. Once a particular unit is found to be 15 years old, it will receive a Euro 4-spec engine swap or a fully electric powertrain supported by solar panel roofing. 

Improvements to public utility jeepneys under the PTMP are said to benefit the multitudes of commuters traveling to local thoroughfares every day. 

“This goes beyond the drivers, the operators. This is about the commuters. We’re talking of millions of commuters everyday. This is a project na dekada na pong hinihintay ng mga mamamayan (This, is a project anticipated by citizens for a decade)," Ortega added. 

Furthermore, the DOTr shared that the PTMP will transform the country’s road transportation network. It will be safer and more organized thanks to improved road network efficiency and fleet management. Commuters using a modern public utility vehicle can also look forward to better comfort, accessibility, and affordability. 

Also read: 

SC junks petition to nullify PUVMP

Fuso PH Turns Over Modern PUV Units to Common Transport Service Cooperative

Fuso PH displays Canter Modern PUV at LTO Motor Show 2024