The DoTr will proceed with the PUV modernization program even without a budget for it in 2023.
The Department of Transportation (DoTr) said it will go ahead with its public utility vehicle modernization program (PUVMP) even if the program is not included in the 2023 budget proposal
DoTr Undersecretary Mark Steven Pastor said
“kung sakaling hindi mabigyan ng pondo o hindi magkaroon ng amendment upang magkaroon ng budget ang PUVMP, hindi pa rin magkakaroon ng suspensyon sa implementasyon ng programa.’”
The National Expenditure Program (NEP) did not include the ₱788 million 2023 budget for the program that the DoTr had planned, Business World reported.
Pastor said the requested funding was meant to support the PUVMP’s stakeholder support programs and the operationalization of PUVMP Project Management Offices.
Pastor said the DoTr continues to lobby for funding to ensure the program is not disrupted.
Pastor added that the agency remains optimistic about this funding. It was one of Duterte’s administration’s leading modernization projects.
“Naniniwala ang Department of Transportation na mabibigyan pa rin ang programa ng kinakailangan nitong budget sa tulong at suporta ng ating mga mambabatas through an amendment ‘” he said.
Last week, DoTr Secretary Jaime J. Bautista welcomed the House’s approval of the 2023 DoTr budget, which totals ₱167.12 billion.
Meanwhile, the LTFRB said the PUVMP calls for a “restructured, modern, well-managed and environmentally sustainable transport sector where drivers and operators have stable, sufficient and dignified livelihoods while commuters get to their destinations quickly, safely and comfortably.”
Tags: #DoTr, #PUVMP