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Poe calls for suspension of PUV modernization amid corruption allegations in LTFRB

Philippines | National

Poe calls for suspension of PUV modernization amid corruption allegations in LTFRB

By Dhel Nazario

Sen. Grace Poe on Tuesday, Oct. 10 urged the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to suspend the PUV Modernization Program (PUVMP) in light of the alleged corruption in the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).

Poe who heads the Senate Public Services Committee said the PUVMP should be suspended until all issues hounding it are resolved.

"We want to modernize our PUVs, but it should be one that is progressive, just and humane," Poe said.

"Hindi na nga makausad nang maayos ang PUVMP dahil sa iba't ibang isyu, nabahiran pa ng korapsyon (The PUVMP can't even advance properly because of various issues, and now it's involved in corruption)," she added.

DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista ordered on Monday, Oct. 9, a thorough investigation into the alleged bribery racket in obtaining franchises for public utility vehicles in LTFRB.

President Marcos also ordered the suspension of LTFRB Chairman Teofilo Guadiz III on Monday. Marcos' order to suspend Guadiz came after his former executive assistant, Jeff Gallos Tumbado, accused Guadiz of corruption in a press conference held by transport group Manibela on Monday.

Poe said that if the allegations are true, this is an injustice to drivers who lost their livelihoods since the agency favored those who gave bribes.

"Erring officials must be held accountable for bungling a very critical program of the transport sector," she added.

Poe said that she is hoping that while there is an investigation of those involved, the modernization program is being shaped to improve the lives of drivers and provide improved services to commuters.

Related Tags

Senator Grace Poe Senate Committee on Public Services Department of Transportation (DOTr) Land Transporation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) DOTr

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