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Ni ROMEO ALLAN BUTUYAN II
Para kay House Speaker Martin Romualdez, hindi angkop na bahiran ng pansariling interes ang programa ng pamahalaan – partikular sa usapin ng usapin ng PUV Modernization Program.
Ito ang pahayag ni Romualdez matapos makatanggap ng impormasyon hinggil sa di umano’y sabwatan sa pagitan ng mga nakaupong opisyales ng Department of Transportation (DOTr) sa mga dating nakapwesto sa nasabing kagawaran para sa pagpasok ng mga supplier ng imported modern jeepney units na pamalit sa tinaguriang “Hari ng Kalsada.”
Kasabay nito, nanawagan din ang House Speaker sa DOTr na repasuhin ang programa at palawigin ang panahon ng pagpapatupad ng naturang programa.
Paglalahad ni Romualdez, nakatakdang isulong ni House Committee on Transportation Chairman Romeo Acop (Antipolo City) isang motu proprio investigation sa di umano’y katiwalian sa likod ng negosasyon sa pagitan ng DOTR at napipisil na supplier.
“The reports allege that existing transport officials are in cahoots with previous officials in negotiating for the imported modern jeepney units that will replace the old units,” paglalahad pa ni Speaker Romualdez.
“While we stride towards modernity and efficiency, we remain steadfast in safeguarding the welfare and livelihood of our jeepney drivers, who are an integral part of this journey. Together, we can achieve a transportation system that is reflective of the Philippines’ growth, respecting our traditions while paving the way for a more sustainable future,” dugtong niya.
Ani Speaker Romualdez, ang jeepney ay nagsisilbing simbolo ng kultura at diwa ng bansa.
“As we embrace progress and innovation, it is imperative that we address the need for modern, efficient, and environmentally friendly transport systems. The jeepney modernization program is not just about upgrading vehicles; it’s a comprehensive plan to rejuvenate our urban transportation landscape, making it safer, more reliable, and in tune with sustainable practices,” hirit pa ng Leyte lawmaker.
Binigyan-diin ng lider-kongresista ang kahalagahan ng kilalanin ang kahalagahan ng mga drayber ng jeepney na nasa likod ng local transport industry ng bansa.
“Their welfare is our primordial concern. As we transition to modernized jeepneys, we recognize the challenges faced by drivers and operators,” sabi pa ni Speaker Romualdez.
“Therefore, I strongly advocate for measures that protect the livelihoods of our jeepney drivers. This includes providing assistance in the transition to new vehicles, ensuring access to affordable financing options, and offering training programs to help them adapt to new technologies.”
Pagtitiyak ni Romualdez, pag-aaralan din ng Kamara ang mga pagbalangkas ng batas na magbibigay-daan sa fixed income opportunity sa mga drayber.
