Speaker Martin Romualdez on Thursday said he would push for measures that would protect the livelihood of jeepney drivers as the government continues to implement its modernization program for public utility vehicles (PUVs).

Romualdez said policies should be put in place to provide assistance to jeepney drivers in the transition to new vehicles, ensure access to affordable financing options, and offer training programs to help them adapt to new technologies.

“It is crucial to acknowledge that at the heart of this modernization are the jeepney drivers – the hardworking individuals who have been the backbone of our local transport industry for decades. Their welfare is our primordial concern. As we transition to modernized jeepneys, we recognize the challenges faced by drivers and operators,” he said.

Romualdez said the House is also exploring avenues to provide fixed-income opportunities for drivers to stabilize their earnings, as well as help plan and secure their financial futures more effectively.

“We believe that a stable income will not only benefit the drivers but will also contribute to a more organized and reliable transport system,” he said.

Until these safeguards for jeepney drivers are set in place, Romualdez urged the Department of Transportation to conduct a complete review of the modernization program and extend the period of its implementation.

Romualdez also called on the House Committee on Transportation to conduct a motu propio investigation into reports received by his office that corrupt practices may have “tainted” the conceptualization and planned implementation of the jeepney modernization program.

“The reports allege that existing transport officials are in cahoots with previous officials in negotiating for the imported modern jeepney units that will replace the old units,” he said.

He said while it is imperative to pursue modern, efficient, and environmentally friendly transport systems, the House remains committed to ensuring the well-being and livelihood of jeepney drivers.

“The jeepney modernization program is not just about upgrading vehicles; it’s a comprehensive plan to rejuvenate our urban transportation landscape, making it safer, more reliable, and in tune with sustainable practices,” he said.

Under Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) Memorandum Circular (MC) 2023-051 signed on Dec. 14, 2023, all consolidated transport service entities and individual operators with filed applications for consolidation before the deadline are allowed to continue operating under their existing provisional authority (PA).

However, all PAs issued to individual operators that have not filed for consolidation are deemed “revoked” effective January 2024 and their previously authorized PUVs are now unregistered. (PNA)