Transport groups Kabacod Negros Transport Colaition and the United Negros Drivers and Operators Center on Wednesday, Oct. 21, called on the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to review its partnership with the World Bank regarding the continuation of the Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP).
The joint initiative between the DOTr and the World Bank aims to expand and accelerate the implementation of the PTMP. Under the agreement, the program will initially be rolled out in six Highly Urbanized Cities (HUCs) in the Philippines, including Bacolod City.
Lilian Sembrano, head of KNETCO, expressed strong opposition to the program, stating that it will cause severe damage to traditional jeepneys.
She added that the partnership is merely a way for the DOTr to phase traditional jeepneys off the roads.
Under the DOTr program, electric vehicles will be introduced on road networks to help reduce environmental pollution.
However, Sembrano noted that the program is also expected to implement route rationalization in Bacolod, where existing routes may be eliminated and merged into single corridors.
Additionally, the groups voiced opposition to the proposed Automated Fare Collection System (AFCS), a cashless fare payment mechanism introduced by the DOTr. The groups expressed concern that involving private companies in fare collection could lead to increased fares for commuters.
The DOTr is scheduled to hold a consultation with local drivers and operators in Bacolod City on Thursday, Oct 22, and the transport groups are expected to respond with a protest action.*
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