DOTr launches PUV Modernization Expo

In a bid to provide commuters an adequate, comfortable, safe, and environmental-friendly public transportation, the Department of Transportation (DOTr)  formally launched the Public Transport Modernization Expo today at the Philippine Convention Center (PICC) Forum in Pasay City. With its theme "Modernong Sasakyan, Progresibong Bayan", the event will showcase different prototypes of modern PUVs, and also highlight the program's benefits both for commuters and operators. The event will be led by DOTr Secretary Arthur Tugade, accompanied by DOTr Undersecretary for Road Transportation and Infrastructure Thomas Orbos, Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) Chairman Atty. Martin B. Delgra III, and Land Transportation Office (LTO) Assistant Secretary Edgard C. Galvante. In a press statement, Tugade said that the expo aims to encourage all stakeholders to keep an open mind about the PUVM program. He said the exhibit will offer a peek into what modern road public transportation looks like. "They say the measure of the country's progress is the state of its public transportation, and today, we are affirming our commitment to change the sorry-state of public transportation in the country. Today, we will show you what progress looks like," explained Tugade. The exhibit will showcase modern PUV prototypes such as: five (5) low-floor Public Utility Buses (PUBs), twenty (20) PUVs (Classes 2 and 3), and three (3) e-tricycles. Car Manufacturers and body builders of the modern PUVs shall have their designated areas at the PICC where stakeholders may inquire about the design, technical specifications, performance, and efficiency of vehicles among others. Joining the manufacturers and exhibitors are representative from DOTr, LTFRB, LTO, Office of Transport Cooperatives, and Government Financial Institutions such as the Landbank of the Philippines (LBP) and the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP). Launched by the Department of Transportation (DOTr) in 2017, the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) is a transformation large-scale initiative and flagship project of Duterte administration, which envisions as restructured, well-managed, and environmentally sustainable transport sector. The program calls to phase-out Jeepneys, buses and other public utility vehicles (PUVs) that are at least 15 years old and replacing them with safer and more comfortable and environmental friendly mobility. At present, there are 180,000 Jeepneys units operating across the country. Photos by: Ruben D. Manahan IV