President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos, Jr. has defended his decision to advance the Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP), formerly known as the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP), against claims it was rushed.
This response came after 22 senators signed a resolution calling for the program's suspension.
“I disagree with the senators who argue it was rushed,” Marcos said in a press conference, referencing Senate Resolution 1096.
The President stressed that the modernization effort had already been postponed seven times.
Marcos noted that significant progress had been made, including the consolidation of most public utility jeepneys, which he views as a crucial step in the modernization process.
“Eighty percent have already consolidated,” he pointed out, questioning whether a minority should determine the fate of the majority. “Let’s listen to the majority,” he asserted.
The Senate resolution urges a pause in the PTMP “pending the resolution of valid and urgent concerns” from affected drivers, groups, unions, and transport cooperatives to ensure a more efficient and inclusive implementation.
The 22 senators supporting the resolution include Senate President Francis Escudero, Majority Leader Francis Tolentino, and Minority Leader Koko Pimentel, among others. Senator Risa Hontiveros did not sign the resolution.
In response, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) expressed appreciation for Marcos's decision to continue the program.
LTFRB Chairman Teofilo Guadiz emphasized the importance of modernizing the public transportation system.
Data from the LTFRB shows approximately 10,000 jeepneys nationwide, including 1,900 in Metro Manila, have yet to consolidate.
Senate President Escudero clarified that the resolution is a recommendation, highlighting the Senate’s role in democracy and the separation of powers.
He noted that the suspension call aimed to address the concerns of those who have not completed the consolidation process.
Protests against the suspension have emerged, including a “unity walk” by 22 transport groups in Northern Mindanao, who argue that halting the PTMP could lead to financial losses and job losses.
Senators cited insufficient government information and the financial burden of modernizing public utility vehicles as reasons for their call to suspend the program.
They also noted that only 174 of 1,574 local government units had approved Local Public Transport Route Plans (LPTRP).
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