LTFRB reopens over 40 pre-pandemic PUJ routes in Metro Manila

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) reopened more than 40 pre-pandemic routes for public utility jeepneys (PUJ) in the National Capital Region, according to Joseph Morong’s report on “24 Oras” on Tuesday.

In a memorandum circular issued by the agency, the LTFRB announced the reopening of at least 42 PUJ routes in Metro Manila effective December 27.

“Una, additional units o kaya public transport for the riding public. Pangalwa, 'yung ating mga kababayan, mas madali silang makakasakay sa usual nilang routes dahil pre-pandemic routes ito na maaaring ito 'yung nakasanayan na nila,” said LTFRB Technical Division Chief Joel Bolano.

(First, additional units for the riding public. Second, livelihood for drivers and more convenient commute for passengers because they may be more familiar with these routes.)

Among the routes to be restored are the San Rafael, Rodriguez, Rizal-Cubao Central Terminal, Novaliches-MRT North EDSA, Pasig-Quiapo, Southmall-Quiapo, Southmall-Lawton, Tandang Sora-TM Kalaw, and Cubao-Marikina.

For his part, Pasang Masda president Obet Martin said the decision means livelihood for PUJ drivers hard-hit by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Magbabalikan ang ibang mga driver natin sapagkat ito 'yung kabisado nilang ruta. At dito, sanay sila at pinagkakakitaan nila ito. Unlike doon sa mga napuntahan nilang ruta kung saan talagang napilitan upang kumita lamang kahit paano para may maiuwi sa pamilya,” he said.

(Our driver will be back because they are more familiar with these routes. Unlike the routes they were plying before where they were forced to do so for their families.)

Around 9,000 PUJ drivers are set to return to the streets due to the memorandum circular, the report said.

Meanwhile, the LTFRB also announced it would open 4,433 slots for taxi drivers who want to register for transportation network companies (TNCs) starting January 9, 2023.

This developed after the agency asserted there is a shortfall of around 7,000 units for ride-hailing applications. It opened slots last May but only 2,000 units have passed their evaluation.

Interested applicants may submit their registration to the TNCs who will then forward it to the LTFRB, the report added. — Sundy Locus/BM, GMA Integrated News