22 senators file measure seeking to suspend PTMP

MANILA: Twenty-two senators on Wednesday filed a resolution expressing the sense of the Senate to temporarily suspend the Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP) due to concerns about its unplanned and rushed implementation. Senate Resolution No. 1096 highlighted the fears of drivers and transport operators who will be directly affected by the program, particularly issues related to consolidation into cooperatives. 'There is an urgent need to thoroughly review and reassess the impact of the program, to alleviate the fears of the drivers and transport operators who will be directly burdened by its implementation,' the resolution read. The senators underscored the need for more consideration and clarifications from the Department of Transportation to address the concerns raised by affected stakeholders, especially the drivers. "While the intent of PTMP is laudable, continuing with the program without threshing out these concerns, would go against the Constitutional directive of promoting social justic e in all phases of national development," the resolution added. Senators also suggested that those who were already forced or volunteered to consolidate can still ply their usual routes while the review is ongoing. A copy of SR 1096 sent to reporters by Senator Raffy Tulfo showed that Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros was not among the signatories. Source: Philippines News Agency