Transport Strike Won’t Hinder Jeepney Modernization Program, Malacañang Palace Says
Malacañang Palace says that the nationwide transport strike won’t hinder the government to pursue the jeepney modernization program.
On Monday (October 16, 2017), different transport groups and organizations have conducted a two-day nationwide transport strike to show their opposition to the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP).
Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said that the administration remains committed to the modernization program. He also explained that there are numerous attempt to modernize the public transportation system, but eventually failed due to the transport strikes.
The modernization program of public transportation program in the country will eliminate all the traditional jeepneys at least 15 years old and be replaced by the modern electronic jeepneys.
Abella said that the Malacañang had no choice but to suspend the cl(–foul word(s) removed–) and government work due to the nationwide transport strike. However, Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) have already sent about 35 vehicles to assist the commuters affected by the strike.
“This is in addition to the 4 military trucks, 4 buses, 4 vans and 4 service vehicles provided by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA); 15 military trucks by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP); 12 light trucks and 4 military trucks by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG); 6 shuttles and I service vehicle by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH),” said by Abella quoted by Inquirer.
However, the government’s PUV modernization program has garnered support from several transport groups such as:
- Federation of Jeepney Operators and Drivers Association of the Philippines (FEJODAP)
- Alliance of Concerned Transport Organizations (ACTO)
- Pangkalahatang Sanggunian Manila and Suburb Drivers Association Nationwide Inc., (PASANG MASDA)
- Land Transportation Organization of the Philippines (LTOP)
- Alliance of Transport Operators and Drivers Association of the Philippines (ALTODAP)
- Stop and Go Coalition
- Other major provincial transport groups nationwide
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