In a recent interview, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. stated that the government's public utility vehicle (PUV) modernization program is necessary, but its implementation needs more discussion among stakeholders, particularly jeepney drivers groups.

Speaking with reporters after launching the Halina’t Magtanim ng Prutas At Gulay, Kadiwa’y Yaman, Plants for Bountiful Barangays Movement (Hapag Kay PBBM) at the Rizal Park in the City of Manila, the President acknowledged the need for modernization and safer PUVs, but expressed concern over the program's implementation.

“Ngayon, doon sa issue sa modernization na sinasabi, sa aking palagay ay kailangan din gawin talaga ‘yan. Ngunit sa pag-aaral ko, parang hindi maganda ang naging implementation nung modernization,” Marcos said.

He emphasized that the modernization program needs to be looked at in a "different way" and suggested taking a closer look at the real timetable for the introduction of electric vehicles. The President also pointed out that only 30% of the country's power is renewable, and the infrastructure needed to support electric vehicles is not yet in place.

Despite these concerns, Marcos assured transport groups that the PUV modernization program would not be an additional burden to operators and drivers.

“Siguro kaya natin kausapin ang mga transport groups at sabihin natin hindi, babaguhin talaga namin para hindi masyadong mabigat sa bulsa ng bawat isa,” the President said.

The PUV modernization program aims to replace aging jeepneys with newer, safer, and more environmentally-friendly models. However, the program has faced opposition from jeepney drivers groups who fear losing their livelihoods.