Manila: The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is open to reviewing the data related to the Public Utility Vehicle (PUV) Modernization Program, particularly concerning the number of PUV operators who have applied for consolidation, Malaca±ang said Tuesday. This decision comes after transport group Manibela accused the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) of falsifying its data on the Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP).

According to Philippines News Agency, Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon has expressed his intent to verify the accuracy of the data on consolidation. Palace Press Officer Claire Castro, during a press briefing, stated that Secretary Dizon is keen to ascertain the validity of the figures to address any problems or issues affecting commuters, as well as jeepney operators and drivers promptly.

The consolidation is a significant component of the government's PUV modernization program, which began in 2017. It mandates PUV operators to form cooperatives or corporations to secure business financing to acquire modern jeepney units. Non-compliance with the consolidation deadline of November 29 last year results in the revocation of franchises, barring operators from continuing their services.

The LTFRB reports that 86.23 percent, or 165,334 out of 191,730 PUVs, have applied for consolidation under the PTMP according to the latest data. PUVs include buses, jeepneys, UV Express, and minibuses. However, the agency clarified that only 43 percent have completed their consolidation, while the remainder are still finalizing their application process but are allowed to operate in the meantime.