BACOLOD CITY – The Department of Transportation has pledged full support for Bacolod City’s efforts to advance the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program, especially its electric jeepney initiatives.
Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon, during his visit over-the-weekend, commended Bacolod’s proactive approach and vision for sustainable public transport.
“What we’ve seen in Bacolod is frankly something that’s very promising,” Dizon said, praising Mayor Alfredo “Albee” Benitez and the city’s forward-thinking leadership.
Dizon acknowledged the ongoing challenges in implementing the national modernization program, particularly the financial burden on drivers and operators shifting from traditional jeepneys.
“While we are doing and focusing on those that have already entered the program, that’s not the case in the majority of the cooperatives,” he said.
He stressed the need to protect consolidated operators while allowing unconsolidated jeepneys to continue operating during the transition phase.
Dizon said the department is reviewing the entire program to address gaps and ensure it works for all stakeholders.
He emphasized that local government units like Bacolod can serve as blueprints for other cities.
“It’s seldom to see an LGU as proactive and progressive as what we’ve seen here. I think it shows the attitude of the stakeholders,” he said.
Dizon added that the modernization program can succeed if implementation is thoroughly studied and the right conditions are met.
“We see a bright way moving forward, and I hope the country can see this as a model for a successful modernization program,” he said.
Dizon also met with transport group representatives, who greeted him with banners at the Bacolod City Government Center to raise concerns about the program’s impact on traditional jeepney drivers.
Benitez presented several proposals, including revisiting the program’s framework, strengthening LGU authority against colorum vehicles, adopting electric vehicles, improving route planning, expanding financing options for operators, and building citywide charging infrastructure.
“It’s time we approach modernization from an economic standpoint to make it viable and profitable for drivers. The shift to electric vehicles is key,” the mayor said.
As of March 2025, Bacolod has approved the consolidation of 1,266 traditional jeepney units and 605 modern units under its Local Public Transport Route Plan.
The city estimates a shortfall of about 1,200 units to fully service its 24 public transport routes.
According to 2018 data, Bacolod has 3,731 public transport vehicles.
Currently, 10 e-jeepneys are operating under the Cebu People’s Multi-Purpose Cooperative, with plans to expand the fleet.
Benitez said a dedicated DOTr team will work closely with the city to implement its proposals and accelerate needed policy changes. (Glazyl Jopson via tdg)
