The Department of Transportation on Thursday ruled out extending the 31 December deadline for public utility vehicles (PUV) to consolidate.
“We express our utmost support to all operators and drivers who have embraced the full implementation of the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) but the deadline stays,” Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista said.
According to Bautista, the initiative has gained the support of the majority of PUV operators and that 70 percent of them have already taken part in the consolidation process.
The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board said some 154,000 public utility vehicles or 70 percent of the total PUVs seen consolidated into a corporations or a cooperatives by 31 December across the country.
In Metro Manila, 73.5 percent or 31,058 traditional jeepneys have yet to consolidate with the deadline almost lpasing.
At least 66 percent of jeepneys have not consolidated in Calabarzon and 63 percent in the Zamboanga Peninsula.
The LTFRB has said the route rationalization study designed to provide rationalized and efficiently planned routes would be responsive to the demands of passengers.
The DOTr said that “all major routes or thoroughfares” in Metro Manila are now being operated by consolidated transport groups.
Secondary routes without consolidated entities, on the other hand, will be served by other modes of public transport, the DOTr said.
“Rest assured that your government is committed to making this program work as this aligns with goal of the Marcos administration on easing the plight of commuters by ensuring cleaner and safer means of public transportation for the riding public,” he added.