By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

The House Committee on Transportation is proposing the deferment of the public utility vehicle (PUV) modernization plan, which is scheduled to be implemented on Wednesday.

According to Bacolod City Lone District Rep. Greg Gasataya, the proposal to create a technical working group was approved by the committee.

Committee chairman, Catanduanes Lone District Rep. Caesar Sarmiento expressed concern due to pressure from transport groups who oppose the plan.

Gasataya claimed the deferment would be an opportunity for transport groups to be heard, adding he expects more position papers from transport groups to be submitted.

Earlier, the Bacolod City congressman held a dialogue with the transport groups, led by United Negros Drivers and Operators Center (UNDOC), during the transport strike held in Bacolod City on June 5.

According to UNDOC Secretary-General Diego Malacad, the plan would displace drivers, and questioned the added requirement of Euro 4 vehicles./DGB, WDJ