Iginiit ng Commission on Human Rights (CHR) nitong Biyernes, Enero 12, na bagama’t isang lehitimong paraan ng pamahalaan ang Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) para sa isang mas ligtas na sistema ng transportasyon, maaari raw itong maging pasanin para sa publiko.

Sa isang pahayag, binanggit ng CHR na layunin ng PUVMP na palitan ang mga tradisyunal na jeep ng "mas ligtas, mas mahusay, at eco-friendly" na mga pampublikong sasakyan. Ang pagbabagong ito ay nangangailangan ng pagpapalit sa mga tradisyunal na jeep ng modernong jeepneys, na nagpapataas naman daw ng mga problema sa ekonomiya at pananalapi para sa sektor ng transportasyon.

“Concerning the need to emphasise more sustainable and efficient energy use, the Commission respects the government’s prerogative to make our PUVs more safe and environmentally friendly on the road. We recognise the importance of transitioning to a more sustainable and safer mode of transportation as it encompasses the very essence of the right to freedom of movement,” pahayag ng CHR.

“On the other hand, the Commission believes that genuine progress is inclusive and leaves no one behind. Given the economic and financial implications of PUVMP, the majority of the program’s financial burden will fall on drivers and operators. It is worth noting that the vast majority of PUV operators are from the vulnerable sector. Adhering strictly to rigid consolidation deadlines may jeopardize PUV operators’ right to a sustainable livelihood,” dagdag nito.

Binanggit din ng CHR na ang pinakaseryosong alalahanin sa PUVMP ay ang pagkawala ng trabaho. Kabilang na raw dito ang mga gastos sa pag-update ng existing vehicles at pagbili ng mga bagong sasakyan, gayundin ang mga gastos sa pagbuo at pag-coordinate sa isang kooperatiba o korporasyon.

“The repercussions of this program extend to commuters, resulting in unintended consequences such as strikes, tigil pasada, and protests, among others. The suspension of franchise issuances for traditional jeepneys has led to challenges in maintaining a sufficient supply and reliability of public transportation services that led to disruptions in the daily commute for the general public,” saad pa ng CHR.

Kaugnay nito, nanawagan ang Komisyon sa pamahalaan na gumawa ng mga kinakailangang hakbang upang matugunan ang mga suliranin hinggil sa pagkawala ng kita ng mga tsuper at operator ng jeep.

“While we believe that modernisation and development are legitimate government goals, they must be pursued without violating fundamental human rights. In the context of PUVMP, it is necessary to avoid actions that may impose an undue burden on the public. This includes avoiding financial difficulties for small transportation operators and protecting the livelihoods of the numerous drivers involved,” saad ng CHR.

“The potential consequences, such as pushing these drivers and their families into poverty, highlight the need for a balanced and considerate approach in implementing modernisation efforts to ensure they align with wider societal welfare.”

Sinabi rin ng Komisyon na responsibilidad ng Estado na mahusay na ma-subsidize ang programa at gawing mas nauunawaan ng publiko ang pagpapatupad ng mga tuntunin at regulasyon ng PUVMP.

“We are one with the government, the transportation sector, and other relevant stakeholders to create a society that promotes sustainable and inclusive public transportation for everyone. Simultaneously, we are committed to protecting everyone’s rights and championing policies based on the principles of fairness, inclusivity, and social justice,” anang CHR.

“Together, we shall build a nation that values development while respecting the diverse rights and interests of all members of society,” saad pa nito.

Matatandaang ipinatupad na ang PUVMP simula noong Enero 1, 2024.

Binigyan naman ng Department of Transportation (DOTr) ang mga operator ng jeep ng hanggang Enero 31 para sumunod sa konsolidasyon kaugnay ng programa.