07/08/2024
๐ฆ๐๐ฎ๐๐ฒ๐บ๐ฒ๐ป๐ ๐ผ๐ป ๐ฆ๐ฒ๐ป๐ฎ๐๐ฒ ๐ฅ๐ฒ๐๐ผ๐น๐๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป ๐ฃ๐ฟ๐ผ๐ฝ๐ผ๐๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐ณ๐ผ๐ฟ ๐๐ต๐ฒ
๐ง๐ฒ๐บ๐ฝ๐ผ๐ฟ๐ฎ๐ฟ๐ ๐ฆ๐๐๐ฝ๐ฒ๐ป๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป ๐ผ๐ณ ๐๐ต๐ฒ ๐ฃ๐๐ฏ๐น๐ถ๐ฐ ๐ง๐ฟ๐ฎ๐ป๐๐ฝ๐ผ๐ฟ๐ ๐ ๐ผ๐ฑ๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ป๐ถ๐๐ฎ๐๐ถ๐ผ๐ป ๐ฃ๐ฟ๐ผ๐ด๐ฟ๐ฎ๐บ (๐ฃ๐ง๐ ๐ฃ)
The Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP), commonly referred to as the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP), seeks to modernize the countryโs public transportation by replacing old, deteriorating units with newer and more environmentally friendly vehicles. However, Senate Resolution No. 1096, filed by 22 Senators on July 30, 2024, proposes for the temporary suspension of the program due to concerns about its unplanned and rushed implementation. The Senate resolution to temporarily suspend the PTMP, as reckoned by our good Senators, has raised several valid and urgent concerns among the affected drivers, groups, unions, and transport cooperatives.
While we acknowledge the legitimacy of the issues and understand the apprehensions of those calling for postponement or abolition of the modernization program, the Cooperatives Sectoral Council of the National Anti-Poverty Commission (NAPC-CSC), alongside the Philippine Cooperative Central Fund (PCF), the Philippine Cooperative Center (PCC), and the National Confederation of Transportworkers Union (NCTU), strongly opposes the Senate proposal for the suspension of the PTMP. The sector firmly believes that continuing with the modernization plan is more plausible and beneficial for the long-term sustainability and efficiency of our public transportation system.
The proposal has seemingly not taken into account the substantial financial investments made by the government, cooperatives, and private financial institutions in support of the program. Concerns arise regarding the 80% of consolidated operators and cooperatives burdened with debt from their acquisition of modernized units under the program. Many operators and cooperatives have already taken loans to acquire modernized units in compliance with the PTMP, but with the potential suspension of the program, it becomes unclear now how these cooperatives will repay their loans and yet continue to operate. The financial strain on these cooperatives is a major issue that must be addressed and resolved immediately.
The NAPC-CSC, PCF, PCC, and NCTU agree that, despite its seeming imperfections, the PTMP is still reckoned to be the best and most realistic solution for improving public transportation in the country. Continuous delays in or outright suspension of the program undermine the substantial progress that has been made and could lead to an outdated transportation system that is detrimental to public safety and economic progress.
Worker leadership and pro-people are essential for a truly just transition in the public transportation sector, and it must guarantee that no workers are lost in the process. The implementation of just transition measures would have to result from careful consideration that considers upskilling opportunities, substitute occupations, or ways to support individuals who may be negatively impacted by the implementation of new technology and renewable energy sources.
The workers who keep our economy running should not have to bear the brunt of this transformation.
We are proposing a Just Transition in Transport Modernization:
1. Just Transition Bill: We call for the introduction of a Just Transition Bill that ensures a fair and equitable process for all those affected by transport modernization. This bill should safeguard the rights and livelihoods of workers and operators throughout the transition period.
2. Comprehensive National Transport Plan: A well-defined and inclusive national transport plan is essential to address the diverse needs of communities and regions across the country. This plan should prioritize safety, accessibility, and sustainability in public transportation.
3. Increase in Public Funding: Adequate public funding is crucial to support the successful and equitable implementation of transport modernization initiatives. Increased funding will ensure the availability of resources to meet the needs of operators and communities.
4. Development of Locally Made Eco PUV/Modern Jeepney: Encouraging the production and adoption of locally manufactured eco-friendly public utility vehicles (PUVs) and modern jeepneys to address also the prices of units will promote environmental sustainability, economic growth, and innovation within the local manufacturing sector.
In solidarity with the Transport Service Cooperatives and the entire cooperative sector, we call upon President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., to issue a clear statement supporting the continuation and fine-tuning of the PTMP. This support is essential to mitigate the financial burdens already incurred and to prevent significant financial losses and livelihood disruptions. By addressing the challenges faced by consolidated operators and cooperatives, implementing a Just Transition Bill, developing a comprehensive national transport plan, increasing public funding, and promoting locally made eco PUVs/modern jeepneys, we aim to create a transport system that benefits all stakeholders and contributes to a greener, more efficient future for public transportation in the Philippines.
