INACCURATE information is being deliberately spread to sow fear among the drivers, operators, and the riding public against the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP).
In a statement on Friday, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) rectified the misinformation and conflicting figures being used by different groups and individuals against the PUVMP to mislead the public about the program.
“Many of the figures used against the PUV Modernization Program are evidently intended to misinform, incite anxiety, and create confusion,” the statement read.
The transport agency clarified that to minimize the impact of the deadline for consolidation, there are existing social support programs available to provide training scholarships and livelihood assistance packages.
“Not being able to form or join a cooperative or corporation does not lead to loss of jobs,” it explained.
As far as the cost of each modernized model is concerned, the DOTr has certified 54 PUV models that are compliant with the provisions of the Philippine National Standards (PNS) of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), which are adopted into technical regulation by the LTFRB. These models are classified as Classes 1, 2, and 3 and are available in the market, depending on the unit’s size, features, and price range.
“Cooperatives are free to choose which type they prefer and can afford,” the agency said.
“Local manufacturers have announced inexpensive models costing far below P2 million. No government agency or official is forcing any cooperative or transport group to buy the most expensive model,” it added.
The DOTr likewise maintained that equity subsidy for cooperatives has been “substantially increased” to assist them in procuring modern units, adding that the burden of paying these units will be shouldered by the cooperative and not the individual PUV drivers.
“Paying the bank loans used to acquire the modern PUVs will be the obligation of the cooperative, not by individual drivers who are members of the cooperative,” it said.
The agency likewise ruled out a fare increase once all PUVs have been modernized as loan payments will not determine the fare adjustment as the country’s economy and affordability of commuters being the primary consideration.
“Welfare of passengers and commuters was the prime goal of the program,” the DOTr said.
