Twenty-three units of modern public utility jeepneys (PUJs) were launched on over the weekend by the Department of Transportation (DOTr) in Ilocos Norte to ply the Laoag City–Bacarra–Pasuquin route.
Transportation Secretary Arthur P. Tugade led on Saturday, July 10 the launch of the modern PUJs and its turnover to the members of Laoag Bacarra Pasuquin Transport Corporation (LBPTC).
According to Tugade, the driver-members of the LBPTC were also awarded a certificate of public convenience to traverse the units' route assignment of Laoag City–Bacarra–Pasuquin.
After the event, the Cabinet official assured locals that the department would continue to support the cooperative and its members to ensure safe and convenient public transportation.
"I assure you–I will support you so that you can achieve the objectives that you have set for yourself. The DOTr will be here as a friend and always ready to help you," Tugade said.
Meanwhile, the DOTr chief urged public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers who want to join the modernization program to the avail of the "Tsuper Iskolar" and financing program to further grow their livelihood.
He also reminded workers in the transport industry to continue enforcing strict health and safety protocols set by the DOTr and the health department amid the persisting coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.