Halt jeepney phaseout
By Nidz Godino
"Erring officials must be held accountable for bungling very critical program of transport sector," Sen. Grace Poe said Department of Transportation (DOTr) should suspend implementation of public utility vehicle (PUV) Modernization Program until alleged corruption issues in PUVMP are resolved.
As chairman of Senate committee on public services, Poe said DOTr and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) should ensure proper preparations are being made for PUVMP.
"We hope while investigating those involved, at same time, modernization program is also being prepared to improve livelihood of drivers and provide proper service to commuters," Poe said.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. relieved LTFRB chairman Teofilo Guadiz III from his post due to alleged corruption under his leadership.
Guadiz was accused by Jeff Gallos Tumbado, former LTFRB information team head and Guadiz's former head executive assistant (HEA), of misconduct regarding PUV modernization program.
Tumbado claimed LTFRB asked for P5 million to process certain requests, such as franchise, special permit or modification of route.
Without naming names, Tumbado said corruption could have even reached Malacañang.
He had acted as conduit and that he had evidence of corruption, being former HEA of Guadiz.
"We want to modernize our PUVs, but it should be one progressive, just and humane, PUVMP couldn't move forward because of various issues, it was also tainted by corruption, if allegation is true, it is not fair to our drivers who lost their livelihood in favor of those who placed bribes," Poe noted.
Following Guadiz's suspension, Transport Secretary Jaime Bautista designated Board Member Mercy Paras Leynes as officer-in-charge of LTFRB effective immediately.
Temporary designation will be until October 2024, during time Leynes will perform and discharge all functions and responsibilities as chairperson of LTFRB.
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