The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has officially granted the “Modern PUV Class 1” certification to the Toyota Tamaraw, a milestone in the Philippines’ public utility vehicle modernization program, Toyota Motor Philippines Corp. (TMP) president Masando Hashimoto announced.
“Our New Generation Tamaraw, proudly built at our Sta. Rosa plant in Laguna, now joins the ranks of trusted public utility vehicles serving our communities,” Hashimoto said.
The certification confirms the Tamaraw meets government standards for safety, emissions, and operational efficiency, allowing it to operate legally as a modern public utility jeepney under the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).
With this approval, the New Generation Tamaraw is now poised for wider deployment in public transport operations nationwide. Hashimoto emphasized that this step aligns with Toyota’s long-term vision of the Tamaraw as a “National Car,” highlighting its dual role in mobility and local industrial growth.
The Class 1 Modern PUV certification ensures the vehicle meets stringent requirements, including CCTV cameras, GPS tracking, automatic fare collection systems, speed limiters, and upgraded braking mechanisms, alongside compliance with roadworthiness and emissions standards.
Certification also opens doors for transport cooperatives and operators to access financing and government-backed incentives, making fleet modernization financially viable.
For the broader transport sector, the Tamaraw’s approval signals continued momentum toward safer, more efficient, and technology-enabled public transportation, improving reliability and commuter experience across the country.
