PUVMP update: LTO, MMDA, PNP begin intense crackdown on unconsolidated jeepneys, PUVs
The PUVMP continues to be pushed forward by the LTFRB. As it stands, and as part of the Modernization Program, the consolidation deadline for PUVs – that includes jeepneys – has elapsed. With that, enforcers of the LTO, MMDA, and PNP have been tapped by the LTFRB to begin apprehensions. Here’s what’s been happening so far.
Consolidation of PUVs must be complied with under PUVMP provisions
Photo: Special Action and Intelligence Committee for Transportation
Per the LTFRB, the deadline for PUV consolidation as part of compliance with the PUVMP was set for April 30, 2024. More than a month later, it was only on May 16, 2024, that elements of the LTO, MMDA, and PNP began apprehending unconsolidated units. As it stands, a 15-day grace period was already given by both the LTFRB and the DOTr (Department of Transportation) for drivers and operators to comply.
Unconsolidated PUVs – jeepneys and otherwise – will be considered “colorum” moving forward.
Photo: Special Action and Intelligence Committee for Transportation
“Authorities will check the serial number on the document issued by the LTFRB displayed on their jeepneys during the operations that started on May 16,” the LTFRB said in a statement.
For those who have complied with this PUVMP provision, the LTFRB issued a reminder to reconsolidated jeepneys that should display their franchise documents on their vehicles’ dashboards or windshields to avoid being apprehended by law enforcers. All the records of unconsolidated PUVs that are apprehended will be provided by the LTO, MMDA, and PNP since they are the relevant agencies tasked to enforce the operations.
Photo: Special Action and Intelligence Committee for Transportation
For those who have been, or will be apprehended, the LTFRB is reminding these PUVs’ operators and drivers that this may result in a one-year suspension of the driver, a PHP 50,000 fine for the operator, and a 30-day impounding of the unconsolidated vehicle.
There is no stopping the PUVMP, and whether operators and drivers like it or not, compliance with its provisions is a must if they want to remain “in business”. Much has been said about the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program, and as everyone expected, opinions are divided even as we speak.
Dura lex sed lex. “The law is hard, but it is the law”. And this law and Program will remain as far as the government and all the involved agencies are concerned.
