FILE

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) will start impounding unconsolidated jeepneys beginning Thursday, May 16, 2024, as the 15-day grace period given by the agency ends.

Despite the ongoing consolidation efforts, a significant number of jeepneys remain unconsolidated. According to LTFRB Chairperson Atty. Teofilo E. Guadiz III, consolidated jeepneys currently stand at 81.11%. Guadiz noted that while some jeepney operators have not yet joined the industrial consolidation, they are being flagged down and warned that future sightings will result in apprehension. The LTFRB expects all unconsolidated jeepneys to be off the roads by May 15, 2024.

In Metro Manila, 63% of Public Utility Jeepneys (PUJs) have been consolidated, according to Guadiz. The LTFRB has issued Show Cause Orders since May 2, demanding explanations from operators who have not consolidated their franchises. Notices have been sent to their last known addresses, and those who received the notices have been given five days to respond. Starting May 16-17, the LTFRB, in collaboration with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Land Transportation Office (LTO), will begin apprehending non-compliant jeepneys.

Cooperatives already formed can still accept new members individually, but forming a new cooperative at this stage is no longer allowed. Guadiz assured that the current level of consolidated jeepneys, along with buses, UV Express vans, and the rail system, is sufficient to meet the daily transportation needs of commuters.

Drivers of apprehended jeepneys face a one-year suspension, while operators will incur a PHP 50,000 penalty and a 30-day mandatory impounding of their vehicles. The LTFRB has prepared impounding areas in Tarlac, ready to accommodate the impounded vehicles.