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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Gabriela urges gov't to reject Mandatory Franchise Consolidation

Gabriela urges gov't to reject Mandatory Franchise Consolidation

Published Dec 29, 2023 02:59 am

Progressive group Gabriela joined the protest with public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers on Friday, Dec. 29 to oppose and insist on rejecting the government's Mandatory Franchise Consolidation.

viber_image_2023-12-29_09-56-32-963.jpg
Members of transport group PISTON, Manibela and No To PUV Phaseout Coalition together with various militant groups, trooped to the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), to continue its protests against the December 31 mandatory franchise consolidation deadline. (Mark Balmores)

In a statement, Gabriela Deputy Secretary General (Internal Affairs) Rose Bihag emphasized the impact of this project, particularly on the livelihood of PUV drivers.

"Thousands of transport workers' livelihoods will be 'killed' through the deceptive PUV modernization program," Bihag said in Filipino.

The LTFRB earlier released a memorandum (Memorandum Circular 2023-052), allowing traditional jeepneys to operate until Jan. 31, 2024.

READ:

https://mb.com.ph/2023/12/28/ltfrb-allows-unconsolidated-pu-vs-to-operate-until-january-2024 

However, Gabriela pointed out that "their (PUV drivers) franchise will be automatically revoked if they do not comply with the mandatory franchise consolidation."

"The franchises of thousands of jeepneys will be rendered invalid after the deadline if they fail to undergo the expensive franchise consolidation," Gabriela said.

Moreover, Bihag added that the LTFRB memorandum reflects the government's lack of alternatives and preparedness in the event of a shortage or crisis in PUV.

viber_image_2023-12-29_09-56-35-203.jpg
Members of transport group PISTON, Manibela and No To PUV Phaseout Coalition together with various militant groups, trooped to the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), to continue its protests against the December 31 mandatory franchise consolidation deadline. (Mark Balmores)

"Marcos Jr. is willing to sacrifice the livelihoods of poor Filipino PUV drivers and commuters for the profit-oriented so-called PUV Modernization Program," she said.

Furthermore, Bihag said the mandatory franchise consolidation should be abandoned, highlighting that an extension is not the solution.

"The livelihoods of thousands of drivers and their families remain on the brink of destruction unless Marcos Jr. abandons the Mandatory Franchise Consolidation and the PUVMP (Public Utility Vehicle Mandatory Franchise)," she said.

Moreover, Gabriela calls on drivers, operators, and commuters to unite and collectively act to defend their livelihood.

"Oppose Marcos Jr.'s anti-driver, anti-commuter, anti-people PUV Modernization Program," Gabriela said.

"Promote mass transportation, resist the consolidation of public transportation franchises," it added.

Related Tags

PUV Modernization Program Gabriela
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