Amid recent turmoil, the Liga ng Transportasyon at Operators ng Pilipinas (LTOP) has strongly condemned the use of violence during transport strikes.
These strikes, intended to protest the government’s implementation of the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization (PUVM) Program, have escalated tensions within the transport sector.
Call for Peaceful Advocacy
LTOP national president Orlando Marquez Sr. stressed the importance of non-violence in their advocacy efforts.
“There is no room for violent behavior in the transport sector,”
he said, emphasizing that their fight for more government support and incentives, while legitimate, should never resort to harm.
Marquez’s statement comes after the mauling of DZRH reporter Val Gonzales during a strike organized by the Samahang Manibela Mananakay at Nagkaisang Terminal ng Transportasyon (Manibela).
Legal Actions Against Manibela
The leadership of Manibela faces significant backlash following the incident. Charges for alarm and scandal, resistance, and disobedience to persons in authority have been filed against Manibela chairman Mar Valbuena and Regie Manlapig, head of the group’s Bulacan and Pampanga chapters.
Marquez supported these legal actions, stating,
“There is no excuse for harming anyone over a lost cause. They should be held accountable for the trouble they caused.”
PUVM Program and Sector Resistance
The PUVM Program aims to modernize the public transport sector, focusing on upgrading the existing jeepney and bus fleets.
Marquez revealed that “about 90 percent” of operators under the LTOP banner have already complied with route consolidation and are in the process of upgrading their vehicles. Despite this progress, resistance from certain groups has stalled broader implementation.
Global Comparisons
Transport modernization is a global trend, with countries like China, Colombia, India, and South Korea implementing various initiatives:
- China: Focuses on building extensive metro and bus rapid transit networks, promoting electric vehicles, and integrating smart technologies for seamless travel.
- Colombia: The TransMilenio BRT system in Bogotá overhauled the bus system through route rationalization and vehicle upgrades.
- India: National Urban Renewal Mission modernizes urban infrastructure, building metro systems, and BRTS corridors while promoting public-private partnerships.
- South Korea: Seoul’s reforms included semi-public bus operations, integrated smart fare systems, and reorganization of bus routes and schedules.
Each of these countries faces challenges similar to the Philippines, such as overcoming resistance from private operators and integrating new systems with existing modes.
Future Outlook and Community Efforts
The modernization of the public transport sector in the Philippines is crucial for improving efficiency and reducing environmental impact. The PUVM Program, despite its hurdles, represents a significant step towards these goals.
Key Points:
- LTOP condemns violence during transport strikes.
- Charges filed against Manibela leaders for recent violent incidents.
- The PUVM Program aims for modernization despite resistance.
- Global examples of transport modernization highlight common challenges.
Transport modernization, whether in the Philippines or globally, requires a commitment to peaceful advocacy and collaborative efforts.
By condemning violence and promoting constructive dialogue, groups like LTOP aim to achieve a more efficient and modern public transport system for all.
Sources: THX News, World Resources Institute, Deloitte Insights & Philippine News Agency.
