24 Abril 2024, Miyerkulles
more birthdays to come JO GOD-SAVES MONTOJO LOPEZ
welcomes Bagong Bayani Monico Lopez Caranay
supports International Autism Day, April 1-8, 2024
supports DENR Earth Day, Every Day campaign
SC to issue TRO vs PUVMP before April 30 consolidation deadline
By Nidz Godino
“Let’s not wait for more operators to be deep in debt due to consolidation and other inhuman maneuvers under PUVMP,” Pinagkaisang Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Operator Nationwide (PISTON) deputy secretary general Ruben Baylon said progressive transport group called on Supreme Court to immediately issue temporary restraining order (TRO) against controversial policy week before April 30 franchise consolidation deadline set for jeepneys and UV Express units.
This comes after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said there would no longer be any more extension in connection to franchise consolidation under public utility vehicle (PUV) modernization program.
Units left unconsolidated into cooperatives and corporations starting May 2024 would be considered colorum and would be prohibited from plying their routes.
“As days inch closer to deadline, worry and uncertainty racks up in hearts of poor drivers and operators.”
Under PUVMP, operators would need to transition from old jeepneys and UV Express units into modern PUVs 27 months after consolidation deadline. However, single unit could cost P2 million or more.
While Filipino manufactuers like Francisco Motors offer modern jeepneys at around P985,000, this is still more expensive compared to traditional jeepney units that only costs around P200,000 to P600,000 each.
PISTON and its legal counsel Neri Colmenares earlier filed petition for TRO before SC last December. However, high court has yet to issue decision.
“We hope Court would understand and stop Department of Transportation and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board from setting deadline on our livelihood,” Baylon ended.
ISKUP! 