Motorcycle taxi pioneer Angkas on Thursday called for refinements in the implementation of the government’s Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP).
Angkas head George Royeca backed the PUVMP, stating modernization involves not only updating vehicles but also improving the overall system.
The Angkas leader stated the initiative should also address passenger and driver requirements, not just vehicle’ environmental upgrades.
“The idea for this program should be able to address the concerns of the stakeholders and uplift the lives of these passengers and drivers,” Royeca said.
He also mentioned that fixing issues that travelers face, like long lines, schedules, and handling fees and fares is crucial.
Launched in 2017, the PUVMP program is designed to swap out old jeepneys for models with cleaner Euro 4 engines and to remove those not meeting LTO road safety standards.
Angkas seeks improvements in PUV upgrade
Grouping private utility vehicle franchises into joint ventures or companies marks the first step of the upgrade plan. It shifts the responsibility of getting new models from owners to the transport group.
Multiple transportation collectives have initiated protest rallies opposing the initiative, arguing they forfeited personal jeepneys when registrations shifted to transport cooperatives.
“What pain point are we trying to solve by just upgrading the vehicles? Upgrading the vehicle alone may fix the environment, but is that really the critical aspect of the situation, or of why we’re modernizing the iconic jeepneys?” Royeca said.
The head of Angkas suggested that by officially recognizing informal transport workers and offering them perks and technological perks, we could help ensure they have a steadier income.
Royeca noted that Angkas has ensured its riders can use services like PagIBIG, Social Security, and trusty lending options, upholding its pledge to rider well-being.
One of the main aims of the PUVMP is to upgrade the public transit network and replace the boundary system with a steady salary for drivers, alongside updating vehicles.
“Like employees of companies or corporations, they will be entitled to SSS, Pag-IBIG, and PhilHealth benefits,” said Office of Transportation Cooperatives (OTC) chairman Andy Ortega.
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