THE Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) yesterday said it will closely monitor the potential effects of the Public Utility Vehicle (PUV) modernization program on workers, especially jeepney drivers.
In a phone interview, Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma said they will keep track of the possible job losses once the phaseout of traditional public jeepneys is fully implemented.
“Since the DOLE always endeavors to preserve existing jobs and create more for our workers, we are always concerned about job losses, whether potential or imagined, but more so actual ones,” said Laguesma.
Asked if they have an estimate of the potential worker displacement due to the program, the labor chief said they have none.
“As far as projection is concerned, the transport sector will be in possession of data as they are more knowledgeable on the matter,” said Laguesma.
He assured that the DOLE is preparing to provide needed assistance to workers who would be displaced.
“If ever there will be job losses, we will partner with concerned agencies in providing skills training, upgrading, provision of livelihood programs, and employment facilitation in the event there will be affected workers,” said Laguesma.
Under the PUV modernization program, old jeepneys, buses, and vans used for public transportation will be phased out and replaced by electric vehicles.
The program is being opposed by several transport groups, saying the modernization efforts would either be costly or render them jobless.
The opposition to the modernization program prompted the holding of what was supposed to be a three-day transport strike earlier this week.
