Senator Francis Tolentino called for an immediate resolution to the concerns surrounding the Public Utility Vehicles (PUV) Modernization that impact Filipino jeepney drivers and operators.
“Kailangan na harapin ang isyu na ito, bagama’t nasa Supreme Court, kailangang marinig ng taumbayan— di naman kasi lahat ng ating mga tsuper ay makakadalo sa Supreme Court hearing, kung ano talaga ang mga solusyon dito sa problemang ito.” Tolentino said.
The Senator was referring to the concerns of jeepney drivers and operators, particularly in the run-up to the December 31, 2023 consolidation deadline.
“Kailangan ng modernization na tutugma sa bulsa ng mga tsuper at operators,” Sen. Tol remarked.
The solon also spoke with Elmer Francisco, the owner of local vehicle maker Francisco Motors, on alternative possibilities for drivers and operators as the government pursues modernization.
According to Francisco, their modernized, full-electric jeepney units, each worth P985,000, comply with Philippine National Standards, are vertically larger, and have safer entry and exit, particularly for people with disabilities.
Furthermore, the units are airconditioned, include four CCTV channels, a dashcam, and an automated fare collection system, all while retaining the traditional Filipino jeepney façade.
Senator Tolentino stated his support for clarifying more choices in the Senate to handle the country’s PUV modernization challenges.
