PBBM affirms PTMP gains in 5th SONA, calls for greater cooperation as more operators and drivers consolidate
The Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP) continues to gain momentum as more public utility vehicle (PUV) operators and drivers join the program.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. reaffirmed the Philippine government's commitment to the Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP) during his 5th State of the Nation Address (SONA). The President highlighted the program's significant achievements and called for increased collaboration from transport stakeholders to enhance a reliable, practical, and efficient public transportation system. He stressed that the PTMP will continue to be implemented in a humane and equitable manner.
The Department of Transportation (DOTr), led by Secretary Giovanni Lopez, is implementing a renewed strategy for the PTMP, focusing on achieving tangible improvements in cities designated as Focus Areas. This includes strengthening collaboration with transport service entities (TSEs), expanding modern Public Utility Vehicles (PUVs) deployment, and advancing route planning.
Lopez noted that the growing number of consolidated TSEs, nearing a decade since PTMP's implementation, signifies progress and has provided valuable insights into best practices for modernization.
As of May 2026, there are 3,090 transport cooperatives and corporations under the PTMP, with membership rising to 264,052 operators and drivers from 190,754. This expansion reflects the continued growth of TSEs and broader participation in the program. In line with the administration's commitment to a just transition, the DOTr reopened applications for consolidation, allowing operators to either form new TSEs or join existing cooperatives, subject to Land Transportation Franchising and Regulation Board (LTFRB) guidelines. This policy aims to provide more drivers and operators the opportunity to engage with the PTMP.
The government has also expanded the deployment of modern PUVs, with 12,052 modern vehicles now operating nationwide, a 143.8-percent increase from 4,944 in July 2022. Sixty-nine out of 100 Local Government Units (LGUs) have completed their Local Public Transport Route Plans (LPTRPs) and received Notices of Compliance (NOC), contributing to more efficient and responsive transport networks.
The President acknowledged the social support programs under PTMP, such as Tsuper Iskolar and EnTSUPERneur, which offer skills training and livelihood assistance to transport workers. These programs have benefited 38,650 drivers through Tsuper Iskolar and 6,358 beneficiaries via EnTSUPERneur, expanding economic opportunities for the sector as it modernizes.
The DOTr plans to further strengthen the program through collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Technical Cooperation Project (TCP) and by expanding capacity-building initiatives for TSEs, aiming to reinforce the program's sustainability and support a more efficient, organized, and commuter-focused public transport system.
Written by urgent.news from Philippine Star Business's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
