IT is sad that the election ban has overtaken the Service Contracting Program of the Department of Transportation (DOTr), a project that even opposition senators like Risa Hontiveros have been heard of supporting.
Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade said the department is gearing up for the implementation of the Service Contracting Program, which will help both public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers and commuters amid the effects of the oil price hikes. Meanwhile, LTFRB Chairman Martin Delgra III said the agency is waiting for the results of its application for exemption on disbursements from the Commission on Elections (Comelec) for the program’s implementation amid the election period.
`… the agency is waiting for the results of its application for exemption on disbursements from the Commission on Elections (Comelec) for the program’s implementation amid the election period.’
The program is good for the drivers and operators of public utility vehicles such as jeepneys and buses because the funds are ready for release by the Department of Budget and Management.
Under the program, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) will pay for the maximum number of trips PUV operators and drivers make per week – with or without passengers. Beneficiaries will also receive a one-time incentive of P5,000 per unit on top of the operational incentives that will be given weekly.
Tugade said in a statement that the service contracting scheme “will provide our drivers and operators regular payouts amid the rising fuel prices and inflation. The other benefit is that the Service Contracting will allow the resumption of the Libreng Sakay.” He expects a ridership of 93 million this year, double that of last year’s 44 million, because of the continuing economic recovery of the country.
As soon as the Comelec issues an exemption, the LTFRB will start implementing the program. The agency is already conducting a nationwide orientation among operators involved in the program. The operators are submitting their documentary requirements as attachments to their service contracts.
A total of P7 billion is already with the LTFRB for use in this program that will run from March to December or until the allotted budget is consumed. It is now up to the Comelec to make this happen.
