ILOILO City — The national government has acknowledged concerns over the Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP) despite its long-term goals of overhauling the country’s aging public transport system,
The PTMP seeks to replace traditional jeepneys with modern units that meet safety and environmental standards, a move long touted as essential to improving commuter experience nationwide.
“The objective of modernizing our jeepney fleet is to ensure that citizens have access to a well-constructed, safe mode of transportation. It is a change that will ultimately enhance the quality of life for our community and passengers alike,” said Palace Press Officer Claire Castro during a recent press briefing here.
However, Castro admitted that current economic realities is making the government to rethink PTMT.
“Alam naman po natin na ang dahilan ng modernization sa ating jeepneys ay para magkaroon ng maayos, matibay at safe na sasakyan para sa ating commuters,” she said.
Castro underscored that while modernization remains a priority, the government is seeking to balance this with the immediate survival of transport workers grappling with soaring fuel prices.
“While modernization is vital for the future of our transport system, it is equally important to ensure that it does not come at the expense of our existing drivers. We are aware of the vulnerabilities faced by these workers,” she stressed.
Traditional jeepney drivers and operators in Iloilo fear losing their primary source of livelihood under the modernization scheme. For decades, traditional jeepneys have not only served as a backbone of public transport but also as a cultural icon deeply embedded in Filipino life.
They are calling for clearer timelines and more inclusive policies that protect both livelihoods and the long-term vision of a modernized transport system./PN
