ILOILO – “We’re very happy and very thankful.”
This was what Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. said upon learning that the Iloilo City government will be suspending for 45 days the Local Public Transport Route Plan (LPTRP).
The LPTRP prohibits “first town” jeepneys (Pavia, Leganes, Oton) from taking passengers to the city.
The suspension takes effect on July 8.
Defensor said there would be ample time to review and improve the LPTRP and address the concerns of the riding public.
The Provincial Planning and Development Office (PPDO) has been tasked to coordinate with its counterpart in the Iloilo City government and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).
“We don’t propose, we dialogue,” said Defensor.
He added: “We will let the city make the adjustments kon ano ang maayo para sa aton nga kasimanwa.”
Mayor Jerry Treñas ordered the suspension of the LPTRP beginning July 8.
He cited the still ongoing coronavirus pandemic which requires the observance of health and safety protocols, the increasing prices of commodities, the inflation experienced by both national and local economies, the public clamor, and the impending increase of commuters due to the upcoming opening of classes create the necessity to make the appropriate adjustments to the current implementation of the new routes./PN
