Truck Body Building Industry Expresses Support to PUV Modernization Program

MANILA: The Automotive Body Manufacturers Association of the Philippines (ABMAP) fully supports the government's Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP), which seeks to replace outdated jeepneys with modern, safer, and eco-friendly PUVs.

ABMAP listed 10 reasons why they back this initiative:

Modern PUVs are locally made

Not all modern PUVs are Completely Built-Up (CBU) units from China, according to ABMAP. In fact, the Philippines manufactures and assembles over 80% of its modern PUVs using brand-new truck chassis. This supports the creation of jobs for  body builders as well as in the upstream and downstream industries.

Modern PUVs are durable

Since the PUVs are entirely new and are made and assembled locally, they last longer than traditional jeepneys. Furthermore, standing passengers are allowed, opening up an opportunity of extra income.

Modern PUVs offers more comfort

The seating is comfortable since a wider seat is allocated for each passenger and there is more space between rows of seats. Passengers may also travel in comfort even in hot and humid weather because these new PUVs come with air conditioning.

Modern PUVs are PNS-compliant

The new PUVs adhere to Philippine National Standards (PNS) regulations and were constructed in accordance with international norms. This indicates that compared to traditional jeepneys, modern PUVs are safer and more dependable. Modern PUVs have service door on the curb side for the safety of the passengers. 

Modern PUVs are eco-friendly

Because they are driven by either an electric motor or a Euro 4 internal combustion engine, the new PUVs are environmentally friendly. This helps reduce emissions and benefits the environment and the health of the passengers.

Modern PUV operators receive increased subsidy

The subsidy from the government for PUV modernization has increased. This lessens the financial burden on operators who are finding it difficult to adapt.

Modern PUVs can be availed through budget-friendly financing scheme

Under the 5-6-7 financing plan, the driver becomes the owner of the PUV after seven years of payment. As a result, drivers are motivated to take better care of the PUVs since they have a stake in them.

Modern PUV drivers receive fixed daily wage

Modern PUV drivers who work for a transport corporation are guaranteed a fixed daily wage as well as social benefits such as Social Security System (SSS), Pag-IBIG, and PhilHealth. This ensures that modern PUV drivers are given access to social welfare benefits.

Modern PUVs are now widely accepted

60% of PUV franchises have already consolidated, which shows the growing acceptance of PUVMP.

Modern PUV operators do earn revenue

The modern PUVs cost between P2.1 million and P2.2 million, which is the usual price for a brand-new PUV. While some believe they can mass produce these for P1.6 million or less, they have yet to prove this. Based on a survey conducted with working modern PUV franchise operators, they are earning revenue and can afford amortization.

The PUVMP is supported by ABMAP as it helps boost the economy, create jobs, enhance passenger safety and comfort, and lower emissions. The program makes sure that drivers have the means to buy PUVs and have access to social welfare benefits. It also provides jobs for body builders and other industries since more than 80% of modern PUVs in the Philippines are locally produced.

Photos from Hariphil Asia Resources, Inc. and Sojitz Fuso Philippines Corp.

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