AS the Department of Transportation (DOTr) launches a long-overdue review of the Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP), Albay 2nd District Representative Joey Salceda has urged Secretary Vivencio Dizon to consider key reforms to ensure affordability, efficiency, and accessibility in public transport.
In a letter addressed to Secretary Dizon, Rep. Salceda outlined three critical concerns regarding the PTMP, emphasizing that these factors will determine the program’s long-term success and sustainability.
1. Ensuring Affordable Modern PUJs to Prevent Fare Hikes
Salceda raised concerns about the high per-unit cost of modern public utility jeepneys (PUJs), which could lead to unnecessary fare increases. He cited allegations of rebates reaching up to P400,000 per unit given to transport cooperative leaders in exchange for procurement agreements, potentially driving up costs. The congressman also highlighted the availability of domestic manufacturers that offer more affordable PUJs as an alternative to expensive imported units.
2. Route Rationalization and Accessibility Enhancements
The representative also emphasized the need for better route planning using modern optimization techniques. Since the PTMP’s inception in 2017, advances in public transport planning software have been made, which should be leveraged to improve route efficiency. Salceda stressed the importance of minimizing gaps between public transport routes, particularly to benefit persons with disabilities (PWDs) and senior citizens, ensuring that they do not have to walk long distances to transfer between routes.
3. Improved Public Transport Links to Regional Airports
Another pressing issue raised was the lack of adequate public transport connections to regional airports, including Bicol International Airport. Salceda argued that efficient public transport links to airports are crucial for both economic development and commuter convenience.
With the PTMP review committee now in place under Special Order No. 2025-0152, Salceda is advocating for his office’s participation in discussions to provide insights from ongoing financial studies on the program’s viability.
The modernization of public transport has been a contentious issue in the Philippines, with transport groups raising concerns over affordability and implementation challenges. The inclusion of these recommendations in the review process could significantly impact the success of the PTMP, ensuring a more sustainable and commuter-friendly public transport system.
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