Window Re-Opens for PUJ Consolidation
Until November 25, public utility jeepney operators can apply for
consolidation.
The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board has given
unconsolidated PUV operators and drivers 45 days to apply for
consolidation.
The Senate had earlier pass a resolution seeking the suspension of the
public transport modernization program, which among others things, mandates
operators of PUVs to consolidate into cooperatives or as corporations.
In opening a window for consolidation, LTFRB chairman Teofilo Guadiz III
said in a radio interview that he only opened a 45-day window for
consolidation as a concession to the Senate resolution to defer
implementation of the modernization program.
He added that those who apply for consolidation during the window will
automatically qualify for fuel subsidies.
Guadiz noted that the LTFRB has already received new applications for
consolidation since the window has opened.
The short window period for consolidation appears to have been ordered just
to appease senators and not transport groups. However, jeepney drivers and
operators should take advantage and benefit from the fuel subsidies.