The crackdown began yesterday, May 16, 2024, following a 15-day grace period for unconsolidated public utility vehicles to comply with the April 30 deadline.
Caught PUVs may result in a one-year suspension for the driver, a P50,000 fine for the operator, and the vehicle will be taken to the impounding area where it will remain for 30 days.
Department of Transportation (DOTr) Undersecretary for Road Transport and Infrastructure Andy Ortega said they are running out of ways to come to an agreement between the government and transport groups still refusing the Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP).
"Several dialogues were conducted by the LTFRB, as well as by us at DOTr, especially with our colleagues at Piston. We had half a dozen or more meetings with them, discussed concerns, and then we looked for solutions. Perhaps it's transparent to say that no discussions have taken place because they really disagree with the government's program," according to Ortega.
PISTON and MANIBELA have once again approached the Supreme Court to issue a temporary restraining order against the PTMP, while questioning whether it is in line with the Constitution.
Meanwhile, DOTr stated that about 80% of PUVs have complied with the PTMP's consolidation requirement.
(Photos by Dek Terante)
