• THERESA MAE DULMAN
The Kabacod Negros Transport Coalition (KNETCO) has raised concerns on the implementation of the Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP) and the E-Vehicle Convention scheduled for Oct. 26-28 in Bacolod City.
KNETCO-NIR president Lilian Sembrano, in a statement, questioned whether the PTMP truly serves jeepney drivers and operators, or merely enriches large businessmen, suppliers, and oligarchs.
The group called on officials, the Department of Transportation, and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board to clarify the city government’s role in the event and ensure full public transparency regarding contracts, funding, and financing arrangements with vehicle suppliers.
“Programs that could burden the lives of drivers and commuters should not be implemented in a rush,” Sembrano said. “Modernization should be for the people, not for the profit of a few businessmen and oligarchs.”
She said that authorities must address critical issues surrounding the phaseout of traditional jeepneys, including the loss of livelihoods for local operators and drivers, as well as the risk of higher passenger fares. | TMD
