Photo credit: LTFRB

The Chairman of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), Teofilo Guadiz III, has been ordered to provide an explanation following allegations of corruption and other irregularities within the agency.

The allegations primarily revolve around the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP), a critical initiative aimed at modernizing the country's public transportation system.

Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista announced on Monday that an investigation into these allegations is already underway.

Secretary Bautista emphasized the Department of Transportation's (DOTr) commitment to ensuring transparency and integrity within its agencies. He stressed that corruption would not be tolerated, and those found guilty would face severe consequences.

"We do not tolerate any form of corruption in the DOTr and will not hesitate to impose the stiffest sanction if the evidence so warrants," Secretary Bautista affirmed.

Sen. Grace Poe also weighed in on the situation, expressing concern over the alleged irregularities surrounding the PUVMP.

She called on the Department of Transportation to temporarily suspend the program until all issues are resolved.

The senator emphasized the need for a progressive, just, and humane approach to modernizing public utility vehicles.

"Hindi na nga makausad nang maayos ang PUVMP dahil sa iba't ibang isyu, nabahiran pa ng korapsyon," Sen. Poe stated. "Kung totoo ang alegasyon, hindi ito makatarungan sa ating mga drayber na nawalan ng kabuhayan dahil pinaboran pala ang mga naglalagay."