Transport groups file SC petition against PUVMP

Transport groups filed a Supreme Court petition on Wednesday seeking to declare null and void government directives implementing the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP).

The petitioners, including PISTON chairman Modesto Floranda, requested a temporary restraining order against the December 31 deadline for franchise consolidation.

PISTON argues that revoking franchises due to non-participation in cooperatives infringes on their constitutional right to freedom of association and could displace up to 200,000 drivers and operators, affecting millions of commuters.

The petition challenges DOTr Department Order No. 2017-11 and LTFRB MC 2023-051, which mandate franchise consolidation by year-end under the PUVMP, aiming to replace jeepneys with vehicles meeting Euro 4 emission standards.