Advancing Data-Driven Public Transport Modernization

In our ongoing commitment to enhancing public transportation, we recently participated in a pivotal consultation organized by the National Federation of Transport Cooperatives (NFTC) and Philippine Chamber of Cooperatives (PCC) on the Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP). This session featured the preliminary findings of the PARASOL project, presented by Dr. Noriel Tiglao of SafeTravelPH and the University of the Philippines National College of Public Administration and Governance (UP NCPAG).​

Key Insights from the Presentation:

• Data-Driven LPTRP Development: The formulation of Local Public Transport Route Plans (LPTRPs) should be grounded in comprehensive data analysis and business considerations. This approach aims to minimize uncertainties and mitigate risks for transport cooperatives; come up with complete and clear roadmap (short-term and medium-term) for operators investing and absorbing a lot of risks and just transition funding requirements for workers that will be inevitability displaced; and institutionalize LGU support for the different components of PTMP, looking at public transport as a social service.

• Reevaluation of Modernization Policies: A thorough assessment of the PTMP's planning framework is essential to ensure that modernization strategies align with operational realities and prioritize the welfare of transport workers. It is critical that we have an honest review of asumptions prescribed with the LPTRP manual; recognize various local/regional context (demand patterns, mode shift targets, healthy consolidation strategies that minimizes competition); and revisit rigid franchising structures (one route, one PUV class; lack of agile mechanism for fleet-sharing among service routes or operators/coops to maximize use expensive new PUVs).

In the slider below, you'll find snapshots from the presentation that showcase one of the project's research initiatives, along with recent community developments and interactions. The full research findings will be published on this website and our social media channels soon, after validation and additional data simulations.

Concrete Recommendations for Policy Enhancement:

Building upon insights from various consultations, workshops, and data analyses, we have identified several practical recommendations to inform the PTMP's development.

1. Prudent Vehicle Acquisition Strategy: Adopt a conservative approach when introducing new vehicles into the fleet. It's more feasible to invest in additional vehicles for specific routes rather than replacing existing ones prematurely. For instance, if Route A requires 96 units during peak hours but only 20 during off-peak times, the cooperative should initially acquire only 20 modern PUVs, gradually transitioning traditional jeepneys over the mandated 36-month period.​

2. Route Profitability Analysis: Recognize that not all routes yield the same profitability. Transparent selection and consolidation processes are crucial. LPTRPs should document and present these analyses to ensure informed decision-making.​

3. Diverse Fleet Composition: Allow for a mix of vehicle classes with varying seating capacities on specific routes. Deploying smaller PUVs during off-peak hours can reduce operational costs and enhance service efficiency.​

4. Exploration of Additional Funding Sources: Relying solely on fare revenues and equity subsidies is insufficient to cover the full costs of modernizing the PUV fleet and maintaining acceptable service levels. Advocating for increased funding, especially if the current Department of Transportation (DOTr) budget remains unchanged, is essential. Notably, the 2025 General Appropriations Act allocates only ₱1.6 billion for PTMP and ₱2.5 billion for fuel subsidies across all transport modes. ​

5. Standardized Data Collection Requirements: The DOTr should establish minimum data collection standards for complex route networks. This initiative would encourage Local Government Units (LGUs) to invest in robust data collection methods, reducing uncertainties and building trust in the planning process. For example, Puerto Princesa City's data collection for LPTRP is estimated at less than ₱1 million, covering household interviews, trip and ridership surveys, and traffic counts.​

6. Financial Incentives and Support: LGUs should consider enacting ordinances that not only specify the number of PUVs per route but also support infrastructure development, such as formalizing stop locations and funding necessary facilities, which can operationalize better fleet management and cooperation among operators within a given area. Additionally, providing subsidies for acquiring modern PUVs and linking local climate and green funds to service contracting models can enhance service quality. Supporting TESDA scholarships to improve drivers' skills in operating modern PUVs is also recommended.​

Engaging Stakeholders for Inclusive Modernization:

The consultation underscored the importance of involving all stakeholders—transport cooperatives, government agencies, legal experts, and academics—in shaping a fair and inclusive modernization strategy. Such collaborative efforts are vital to developing policies that are both practical and beneficial to all parties involved.​

As we continue to advocate for a public transport system that is modern, convenient, accessible, affordable, safe, and reliable, it is imperative to ensure that the voices of all stakeholders are heard and considered. By working together, we can drive meaningful reforms that lead to a more efficient and equitable public transportation landscape.