BACOLOD City – The Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) is pressing Congress to fast-track a legislative measure aimed at mitigating the adverse impacts of the government’s Public Utility Vehicle (PUV) modernization program.
The urgency was prompted by growing concerns within the transport sector about the mandatory aspects of the program.
Vice Mayor El Cid Familiaran, on May 7, submitted Resolution No. 371, series of 2024, to both the House of Representatives and the Senate. This resolution calls for immediate legislative action to address issues arising from the implementation of the PUV modernization plan in Bacolod City.
During a city council session on May 3, Lilian Sembrano, president of KABACOD Negros Transport (KNETCO-PISTON-NPTC), voiced the sector’s mixed reactions to the modernization initiative.
While there is support for voluntary modernization, she said there is strong resistance against the forced consolidation of PUVs, arguing it infringes on the operators’ freedom of association and would lead to economic hardship for many.
The resolution also cites the dire situation faced by daily commuters, who endure long waits in harsh conditions due to a shortage of operational PUVs.
Public hearings in Congress have already taken place, where representatives from both the government and the transport sector presented their cases.
The SP emphasizes the need for swift action to avert further social unrest and economic disruption that could severely affect millions of Filipinos./PN
