MANILA – Transport group Piston announced on Friday that it would stage another transport strike from September 23 to 24 in protest of the Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP).
Piston, in collaboration with transport group Manibela, outlined several key demands:
- Repeal of the PTMP
- Cancellation of forced franchise consolidation
- Renewal of franchises and registrations for all public utility vehicle (PUV) operators, including those opting out of consolidation
- Zero allocation for PUV phaseout programs, redirecting funds to rehabilitate traditional jeepneys and support local industries
- Permission for operators who consolidated to withdraw from the arrangement
In August, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. dismissed calls from 22 senators to suspend the program, which they argued lacked adequate public information and imposed a financial burden on drivers and operators who are required to purchase modernized jeepneys.
“I disagree with them because sinasabi nila minadali. This has been postponed seven times, the modernization has been postponed for seven times,” Marcos stated.
He further noted that approximately 80 percent of operators have already complied with the PTMP requirement to consolidate into cooperatives, which facilitates access to bank loans for purchasing new jeeps.
The PUV modernization program was introduced in 2017 but has faced multiple delays due to protests and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Many drivers oppose the plan, citing concerns that purchasing new vehicles would leave them in debt, making it difficult for them to repay loans and earn a sustainable income.
While jeepneys now compete with buses, vans, and motorbikes for passengers, they remain a common sight on Philippine roads. Typically brightly painted and known for their distinctive exhaust sound, jeepneys offer affordable transportation at around P13 per ride. Their second-hand diesel engines are also easy to maintain.
The government’s proposed modern mini-buses, however, come equipped with European emission standard engines or electric motors, WiFi, CCTV, and air-conditioning, representing a more high-tech alternative.