The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has reiterated that there will be no further extension for the consolidation of public utility jeepney (PUJ) franchises beyond April 30.
LTFRB Chairman Teofilo Guadiz III emphasized that PUJs failing to consolidate their franchises by the deadline will not be permitted to operate.
Despite opposition from transport groups like MANIBELA, who plan to stage protests before the deadline, the consolidation process remains a crucial step toward modernization.
Additionally, LTFRB expressed openness to providing another fuel subsidy for public utility and tricycle drivers.
The subsidy, contingent on the Department of Energy’s certification of Dubai crude oil prices hitting $80 per barrel, is part of the P2.5 billion allocation in the General Appropriations Act of 2024.
However, LTFRB acknowledged delays in subsidy disbursement, particularly for tricycle drivers, due to incomplete lists provided by the Department of Interior and Local Government.
Once triggered, the subsidy will provide financial assistance to modernized public utility jeepneys and utility vehicle operators, as well as traditional PUJ drivers and tricycle drivers.
Source: PhilNews24 | April 9, 2024
