Suspension of jeepney modernization program pushed in Senate

By Leonel Abasola, Philippine News Agency

Escudero said he had long opposed the PUVMP, citing the need to review the program to prevent the loss of the livelihood of jeepney drivers and operators.  (File photo: Yannes Kiefer/Unsplash)

MANILA – Senate President Francis Escudero said Tuesday he would seek the suspension of the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) until the concerned agencies solve the problems, including the high price of modern jeeps.

During the Senate Committee on Public Services hearing, Escudero said he has the support of Senate Majority Leader Francis Tolentino, Senator JV Ejercito, and committee chair Senator Raffy Tulfo.

“Majority of the Senate supports the suspension of this modernization program,” he said.

Tulfo said he would file a resolution seeking to suspend the PUVMP that began in 2017 under the administration of then-president Rodrigo Duterte.

Escudero said he had long opposed the PUVMP, citing the need to review the program to prevent the loss of the livelihood of jeepney drivers and operators.