The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has issued a warning against unconsolidated “colorum” jeepneys continuing to operate beyond the April 30 deadline for consolidation under the public utility vehicle modernization program (PUVMP).
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has declared no further extensions to the deadline.
LTO chief Vigor Mendoza emphasized the President’s directive to intensify action against colorum vehicles, stating that those without permits after May will be deemed colorum and face legal consequences, including criminal charges and vehicle impoundment.
Meanwhile, Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista is considering filing charges against jeepney operators and drivers involved in recent transport strikes for causing obstruction and traffic disruption.
Bautista stressed the importance of upholding public convenience while respecting protesters’ rights.
Meanwhile, Transport group Manibela, in collaboration with their Piston counterparts, plans to continue operations beyond the April 30 deadline for franchise consolidation, despite the risk of apprehension.
They assert that any violation should undergo due process or hearings in Congress rather than immediate action by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).
Moreover, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) reported that the recent transport strike did not significantly disrupt public transportation, as observed on major roads.
Source: PhilNews24 | April 17, 2024
