• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Senators have sought the suspension of the controversial Public Utility Vehicle (PUV) Modernization Program until all issues surrounding it are resolved.
Following the Senate committee on public services hearing Tuesday (July 23), Senator Joseph Victor Ejercito said that he, along with Senators Francis Tolentino and Raffy Tulfo, pushed for the holding in abeyance as suggested by Senate President Francis Escudero.
Ejercito said that all the problems and challenges in the PUV modernization program such as consolidation, rationalization of routes, and supply and financial scheme should be resolved first.
“If we have good financial packages and make it available and affordable for them (operators and drivers), then that will make it successful,” he added.
Escudero said that he has been objecting the PUV modernization plan, noting that it was not well thought-out and would only burden the transport sector.
“In the amount of P2.5 million each, where will the operator or the driver get the payment? No matter what calculation you do, even if the driver overworks and becomes a hunchback for 24 hours of driving, it won’t be enough to pay that,” he added.
Ejercito said that the Senate will draft a resolution based on what they have agreed upon during the committee hearing.
While he is supporting the PUV modernization program, Ejercito said it should be done correctly and not abruptly, noting that it was not well studied and planned.
Still, Ejercito said “there is no way for us but to go modernize for safety and convenience. | GB
