THE Department of Transportation (DOTr) has renewed its call for unconsolidated operators to join the Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP) with new pathways to compliance.

The order was signed by Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon on Tuesday.

The move came after intense lobbying from transport groups and a comprehensive review of the modernization program by a DOTr special committee in March.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. had earlier approved the extension of the consolidation deadline from December 2023 to April 2024 — with many operators struggling to meet requirements.

Under the new framework, public utility jeepney and UV Express operators, who previously held provisional authorities but missed consolidation deadlines, would be given another chance to regularize their status.

On routes where consolidation has already reached 60 percent or higher, unconsolidated operators may join existing transport service entities (TSE), provided the total fleet size does not exceed authorized limits.

For routes lagging below the 60 percent consolidation threshold, the DOTr offers an alternative scheme whereby operators could integrate with existing TSEs or, if they can assemble sufficient compliant units without surpassing route capacity limits, form entirely new cooperatives.

Those operating on routes completely lacking TSEs would be given opportunities to renew their provisional authorities for their original routes. Another option is to apply for new ones elsewhere, provided no TSE exists in those alternative locations.

The new guidelines also allow the creation of new developmental routes.

Operators can submit petitions for the establishment of new routes, for as long as these interim routes align with local public transport route plans.

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board has 15 days to issue detailed implementing rules of the new scheme, while the special committee would continue its review of the PTMP.

Sen. Grace Poe lauded the DOTr for heeding the call to revisit the "flawed modernization program after consultation with transport groups and stakeholders."

"But, the devil is in the details, as they say. Are the new guidelines responsive to the concerns earlier raised by the drivers and operators? We expect the guidelines will be able to answer the misgivings and questions of our PUV drivers and operators to encourage them to take part in this program," Poe said.

"We are hopeful that the new DOTr leadership will do it right and just this time," she added.

Meanwhile, Senate President Francis Escudero proposed the cancellation of licenses of drivers involved in road rage incidents and accidents.

Escudero added that merely suspending the licenses of erring drivers for 90 days was too light of a punishment.

Escudero said having a driver's license is a privilege, not an inherent right, and it comes with substantial responsibilities.

"If a motorist is undisciplined, his license should be revoked," the senator added.