TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol (PIA) -- Even if the public utility vehicle (PUV) is not brand new, public transport operators will be eligible for a franchise under the Public Utility Vehicles Modernization Plan (PUVMP) if their units pass the standards for safety and roadworthiness. 

This was the assurance given by Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) transport development officer Eugenio Ebo Jr. in response to concerns raised by the operators here over what they described as the steep requirements under the PUVMP. 

“Old units can still be used as long as the Land Transportation Office (LTO) certifies these as roadworthy,” he said during his recent guesting at the Capitol Reports forum in Bohol.

Efficient, reliable vehicles 

The PUVMP is designed to modernize the transportation sector and provide a safer, more efficient, reliable, convenient, affordable, climate-friendly, and environmentally sustainable transportation system in the country. 

It aims to replace PUVs  that are older than 15 years to comply with environmental and safety standards. 

According to LTFRB, modern jeepneys should be equipped with at least Euro-4 emission compliant engine and safety features such as dash cams, speed limiters, CCTV cameras, automatic fare collection system, and must adhere to the Philippine National Standards approved by the Bureau of Philippine Standards.

The new guidelines require modernized vehicles equipped with Global Positioning System (GPS) tracking for efficient route management, route speed limiters, and automated fare collections. 

‘No phaseout’

Public transport operators here expressed their concern that the requirement for Euro 4 vehicles is too expensive for them at this time. 

They said this could affect the overall bulk of transportation services available for the public if the old units cannot be used anymore. 

Ebo explained that under PUVMP, there will be no phaseout of the traditional jeepneys but they will be converted into modernized units equipped with improved safety and technological advancements. 

“The program does not phase out the traditional jeepneys but convert them into modernized versions with improved safety and technological advancements,” he said.

According to LTFRB7, old PUVs will be issued a certificate of public convenience provided that they have consolidated under the PUVMP and the unit has been tested and certified to be roadworthy by the LTO.  (RAHC/PIA7 Bohol)