By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senate President Chiz Escudero clarified on Wednesday (14 Aug 2024) that the Senate is not against the Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP), formerly known as the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP), but only seeking clearer plans.
“Our goal is to delay implementation in areas that are not yet prepared, where route plans are incomplete, or where the government has not yet convinced everyone. They should not be banned or declared irregular if they are not yet in compliance,” Escudero told reporters.
“The Senate’s position is clear: we are not opposed to modernization. It should be done correctly, properly, and with sufficient support for each group involved, including drivers and operators,” he added.
Escudero made these statements following a meeting with transport group leaders regarding the Senate’s stance on the PTMP.
Previously, the senators signed Senate Resolution No. 1096, which called for the suspension of the PTMP.
However, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. rejected this call, noting that the program had already been postponed several times.
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