By Jen Baylon

The Bacolod Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) has passed a resolution urging the national government to review the implementation of the public utility vehicle (PUV) modernization program.

In an interview with Bombo Radyo Bacolod, Councilor Renecito Novero said they are calling the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to review the program before its full implementation, citing its potential impact on many livelihoods.

He said the resolution supporting traditional jeepney drivers and operators’ petition has been approved by the SP, and is set to be forwarded to the LTFRB and the Department of Transportation (DOTr).

The councilor also emphasized that the Land Transportation Office is DOTr’s only implementing agency, which carries out directives without direct involvement in the PUV modernization program.

According to Novero, if the concerned agency fails to implement the directives, they may face administrative or criminal charges.

He explained that while they empathize with the affected drivers and operators, their hands are tied as the national government mandates the PUV modernization program’s implementation.

Novero added that the program appears to be just a department order, similar to a directive that needs to be followed.

Petitioners were advised to request the concerned government agencies to expedite their response./JB, WDJ