In line the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) goal of providing commuters with an adequate, comfortable, safe, and environment-friendly public transportation, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) has launched the Public Transport Modernization Expo: Modernong Sasakyan, Progresibong Bayan at the Philippine Convention Center (PICC) Forum in Pasay City.

Displayed at the event are multiple modern PUVs prototypes. It will also highlight the program’s benefits for both commuters and operators. Leading the event will be DOTr officials along with Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) Chairman Atty. Martin B. Delgra III, and Land Transportation Office (LTO) Assistant Secretary Edgar C. Galvante.

DOTr Secretary Art Tugade said that the expo aims to encourage all stakeholders to keep an open mind about the PUVM program, and offers a peek into what modern road public transportation could look like.

“They say the measure of a country’s progress is the state of its public transportation, and today, we are affirming our commitment to change the sorry-state of public transportation in the country. Today, we will show you the future. Today, we will show you what progress looks like,” said Tugade.

Variou PUV prototypes on display include 5 low-floor Public Utility Buses (PUBs), 20 PUVs (Classes 2 and 3), and 3 e-tricycles. Stakeholders may inquire more about the the design, specification and performance on these vehicles by going to each manufacturer’s designated stall.

Apart from manufacturers and exhibitors, representatives from the DOTr, LTFRB, LTO, Office of Transport Cooperatives (OTC), and Government Financial Institutions such as the Landbank of the Philippines (LBP) and the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) are also present to answer queries about the PUVMP.

The PUVMP is a transformational large-scale initiative and flagship project of the Duterte administration, which envisions a restructured, well-managed, and environmentally sustainable transport sector.