MANILA, Philippines — Transport group PISTON has accused authorities of using the recent extension of the jeepney consolidation deadline as a tactic to pressure operators into surrendering their routes for monopolization.

In a statement, PISTON criticized the government’s decision to extend the deadline, claiming it forces small operators into unfavorable compliance under the Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP).

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) formalized Memorandum Circular No. 2024-043 on December 5, allowing operators with pending consolidation applications more time to meet PTMP requirements.

The circular sets a new deadline for unconsolidated jeepney drivers and operators, granting them until December 31, 2025, to comply with the program.

“The government wants small operators to surrender their franchises to big corporations and cooperatives, so they can monopolize the routes,” PISTON National President Mody Floranda said Tuesday.

Floranda also criticized the LTFRB, stating that the agency has failed to address the flaws in the Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP).

 “The LTFRB cannot admit their program is a failure, so they just keep giving extensions as a quick fix,” Floranda said.

According to PISTON, many jeepney operators who submitted consolidation applications last year have yet to receive updates or see any progress from the LTFRB.

According to the LTFRB, 83 percent of Public Utility Vehicles (PUVs) nationwide have already been consolidated. 

The agency expects an additional 7 to 10 percent of operators to comply following the reopening of the program last November 29.