Marcos orders review of public transport modernization program

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has called for a comprehensive review of the Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP) following concerns raised by Transport Secretary Vince Dizon regarding its current viability.

The President’s directive comes in response to Dizon’s recent statement that the PTMP, in its present form, is unsustainable. The President’s office has emphasized a commitment to avoiding undue hardship for jeepney drivers and operators during the transition.

Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro confirmed the President’s stance, stating that Marcos is actively seeking solutions to ensure a smoother implementation of the program.

Castro highlighted the President’s concern for the welfare of jeepney drivers and operators, emphasizing his unwillingness to force the program’s implementation if it would cause significant hardship.

The review will focus on identifying and addressing the challenges currently hindering the program’s success.

The decision to conduct a further study underscores the administration’s commitment to balancing the goals of modernizing public transportation with the need to protect the livelihoods of those currently employed in the industry.

The outcome of this review will likely shape the future direction of the PTMP, potentially leading to significant revisions or even a complete overhaul of the program’s implementation strategy. The review is expected to involve consultations with stakeholders, including jeepney drivers, operators, and transport experts.