DOTr says consolidation 'non-negotiable' for PUVMP

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) said that the consolidation of jeepney operators and drivers into cooperatives or corporations is a non-negotiable component of the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP).

Transportation secretary Jaime Bautista said that the agency believes that the players must consolidate into cooperatives or corporation.

“One very important issue that is non-negotiable is industry consolidation because we really need the players to consolidate into cooperatives or corporation,” Bautista was quoted saying.

“Sabi ko nga hindi namin pwedeng pagbigyan yung ayaw nilang magconsolidate. Sa tingin namin this is an important component of PUVMP (I said we can't give in to those who don't want to consolidate. We think this is an important component of PUVMP),” he added.

The transport secretary maintained that department has the support of various transport groups, adding that his and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board Chairman Teofilo Guadiz III’s offices are open for dialogue.

“Napakaraming grupo na sumusuporta sa ating programa. Ready kami makipag-usap anytime sa kanila. Ang aking opisina ay handang makipag-usap kung kanino man at handa tayong makipag dayalogo (There are plenty of groups that support our program. We are ready to talk to them anytime. My office is ready to talk to anyone and we are ready for a dialogue),” Bautista noted.

Photos from Department of Transportation - Philippines Facebook page and Ruben Manahan IV 

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