The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) projects that the country will achieve 40% modernization of public utility vehicles (PUVs) by 2027.
The target stems from the ongoing implementation of the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP).
LTFRB Chairman Teofilo Guadiz III stated that jeepney operators who joined the consolidation efforts will have until 2027 to comply with the program.
Guadiz referred to the transition as a “gradual phaseout” of traditional passenger jeepneys.
As of November 29, over 1,000 operators rushed to meet the deadline for submitting consolidation applications.
However, Manibela President Mar Valbuena condemned the LTFRB’s statements, citing 8,000 withdrawals from the program across Metro Manila, Central Luzon, and other regions.
The PUV modernization program remains a contentious issue as operators express concerns over the financial burden and operational changes.