In MALASIQUI, Pangasinan, members of the Tayug Pangasinan Transport Service Cooperative (TAPTRANSCO) recognized an opportunity to enhance their livelihood and ensure secure and comfortable transport services for commuters through the Public Utility Vehicles (PUV) modernization program. TAPTRANSCO Chairman Manuelito de Vera stated in an interview on Friday that their objective was to legitimize their livelihood by obtaining a registered franchise.
De Vera emphasized the additional benefits that come with modernized PUVs, including insurance coverage for vehicles, passengers, drivers, and operators. He underscored the primary concern for passenger, driver, and operator safety, expressing the significance of the modernization program.
In 2018, hundreds of operators and driver-members embraced the PUV modernization idea, but only 15 TAPTRANSCO members persevered through the process, eventually gaining approval as a transport cooperative in 2021. The program also brought social benefits to cooperative members, including coverage from the Social Security System, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and Pag-IBIG Mutual Fund.
Currently, the cooperative, located in the eastern part of the province, operates 10 modern PUVs and has applied for an additional five units. Each unit, costing over PHP2.2 million, benefits from a national government subsidy ranging from PHP120,000 to PHP150,000. This subsidy complements other support, such as gasoline subsidies and programs like Libreng Sakay (Free Ride).
De Vera highlighted the environmental aspect of the modernized PUVs, equipped with Euro-4 engines that are environmentally friendly. Despite the ongoing loan payments for the PUVs, cooperative members receive equal earnings.
Approximately 75.56 percent of PUV operators in the Ilocos Region are consolidated into cooperatives or corporations, according to the regional Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB). As of December 29, 2023, compliant stakeholders reached 4,609 out of a total of 6,100 operators.
The overarching goal of the modernization program is to elevate the country's public transport system to global standards, providing a dignified, humane, and safe transportation experience. It aims to offer Filipinos a comfortable life through a more efficient, reliable, convenient, affordable, climate-friendly, and environmentally sustainable transportation system. (PNA)
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